5027-4 Annex A - Presentation Narrative

Cadets and Junior Canadian Rangers Group Order (CJCR Gp O)

Lord Strathcona Medal Presentation Narrative and Content for Inclusion in Event Programs

Text to be read during the presentation of the Lord Strathcona Medal

The Lord Strathcona Medal is one of the highest awards that can be granted to a cadet/JCR. It demonstrates all that Lord Strathcona himself personified: hard work, dedication, service to Canada, excellence in all pursuits, vision, perseverance and intelligence and a focus on stewardship of our country; its health and vibrancy and that of its youth. 

The recipient today has been singled out amongst their peers for outstanding performance as a cadet/JCR. For demonstrating proficiency in physical fitness and marksmanship, as well as dedication to the program and their country. For demonstrating the qualities of Lord Strathcona and leaving their own personal legacy at this corps/sqn/patrol, and within the community through their service, performance, example and excellence as a cadet/JCR.

I now ask the Reviewing Officer/CO/Community Leader (as applicable) to identify this year’s most deserving cadet/JCR.

Content to be inserted into Event Program

Lord Strathcona Medal Founder: Donald Alexander Smith, 1^st Baron Strathcona and Mount Royal

This very accomplished businessman, politician and philanthropist was born in Scotland in 1820. Throughout his long life, he left quite a legacy in Canada. Here are a few facts about Lord Strathcona:

• As a businessman, he began his apprenticeship at age 18, in the Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) working in the fur trade in Labrador. He went on to become the principal shareholder, and Governor of the HBC in 1889, positions he held until his death. In addition, he became the president of the Bank of Montreal in 1887.
• As a politician, he entered politics in Winnipeg in 1870-71 (at age 50) and became a member of parliament representing Winnipeg for nearly ten years. After a break of several years, he returned to Parliament in 1887 where he remained until 1896, when he was appointed High Commissioner for Canada in London, England.
• As a philanthropist: Although well known for driving the last spike in the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railroad at Craigellachie, British Columbia in 1885; he also promoted the construction of the railway and his financial support was vital to the success of the enterprise.
  
  • In 1900 Lord Strathcona personally financed and raised a Cavalry Regiment of Canadian cowboys for the Boer War. That Regiment, with the title Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians) exists to this day as an Armoured Regiment within the Canadian Army.
• In 1909-1910, Lord Strathcona established the Strathcona Trust with a $500,000 donation. His wish was to improve the physical and intellectual capabilities of youth in Canada, by encouraging habits of self-discipline, good citizenship and patriotism. In 1923, a medal was struck and awarded to the most deserving cadet in each cadet corps.

Donald Alexander Smith was recognized for his many contributions to Canada by being knighted by Queen Victoria in 1886.​