In 1988, I and thousands of other soldiers who had participated in United Nations peacekeeping operations were collectively awarded the Nobel Peace Prize (“Rest in Peace for a Nobel Prize” by Adam O’Neal, op-ed, Oct. 5). Canada struck a commemorative medal for its eligible awardees, and we were quietly proud.

Later in life, as a high-school teacher, I often mentioned that I was a Nobel laureate in my introductory remarks to new students. It led to some productive conversations about duty, honor and a citizen’s obligation to...

Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg.

Photo: Markus Schreiber/Associated Press

In 1988, I and thousands of other soldiers who had participated in United Nations peacekeeping operations were collectively awarded the Nobel Peace Prize (“Rest in Peace for a Nobel Prize” by Adam O’Neal, op-ed, Oct. 5). Canada struck a commemorative medal for its eligible awardees, and we were quietly proud.

Later in life, as a high-school teacher, I often mentioned that I was a Nobel laureate in my introductory remarks to new students. It led to some productive conversations about duty, honor and a citizen’s obligation to participate in worthwhile activities in the interest of world peace.

Still later, as a newly naturalized U.S. citizen, I returned my medal upon learning that President Obama had been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for reasons that I have never understood. Today, I regret that I had only one medal to give for my country. If I had another, it would surely be returned should “18-year-old climate activist Greta Thunberg” become the latest Nobel laureate.

Sid Stephen

Sun Lakes, Ariz.