November 24, 2004 OTTAWA — Her Excellency the Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson, Governor General of Canada, will preside over a presentation ceremony of the Meritorious Service Decorations at Rideau Hall, in Ottawa, on Friday, November 26, 2004, at 10:30 a.m. The Meritorious Service Decorations are an important part of the Canadian Honours system. Like the Order of Canada, they recognize excellence. However, they honour either a single achievement or an activity over a shorter period of time, while the Order of Canada focuses on lifetime achievement. The Governor General will present five Meritorious Service Crosses and 32 Meritorious Service Medals during the ceremony. Meritorious Service Decorations are separated into military and a civil divisions, with two levels in each category: a medal and a cross. The military division recognizes individuals for outstanding professionalism and for bringing honour to the Canadian Forces and to Canada. The civil division recognizes individuals who have performed an exceptional deed or an activity that has brought honour to their community or to Canada. A media schedule for the ceremony (Annex A), a complete list of recipients (Annex B) and the citations for the recipients (Annex C), are attached. -30- Media information Rideau Hall Press Office Lucie Brosseau (613) 998-0287 www.gg.ca Public information The Chancellery of Honours Government House 1-800-465-6890 ANNEX A 09:50 a.m. Arrival of media - use the Princess Anne entrance 10:00 a.m. Sound and light checks 10:15 a.m. Guests begin to take their seats in the Ballroom 10:30 a.m. The Governor General enters the Ballroom Viceregal Salute The Governor General speaks The Governor General presents members with their insignia 11:15 a.m. National Anthem End of ceremony ANNEX B MERITORIOUS SERVICE CROSS NAME PLACE OF RESIDENCE and current posting where applicable Colonel Peter John Devlin, O.M.M., M.S.C., C.D. (military division) Carlisle, Pennsylvania, U.S.A. and London, Ontario Chief Warrant Officer Wayne Arnold Ford, M.M.M., M.S.C., C.D. (military division) Petawawa, Ontario and Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island Major-General Andrew Brooke Leslie, O.M.M., M.S.C., M.S.M., C.D. (military division) Kingston, Ontario and Ottawa, Ontario Susan Jill Sampson, M.S.C. (civil division) Qualicum Beach, British Columbia Danièle Sauvageau, M.S.C. (civil division) Saint-Lambert, Quebec MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEDAL NAME PLACE OF RESIDENCE and current posting where applicable Charlene Alexander, M.S.M. (civil division) Whitehorse, Yukon Suellen Beatty, M.S.M. (civil division) Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Chief Warrant Officer Daniel Rodney Bradley, M.S.M., C.D. (military division) Petawawa, Ontario and Ottawa, Ontario Douglas C. Bridge, M.S.M. (civil division) Guelph, Ontario Lisa Susan Brown, M.S.M. (civil division) Toronto, Ontario Honorary Colonel William J. Coyle, O.Ont., M.S.M. (military division) Bolton, Ontario Heather Crowe, M.S.M. (civil division) Ottawa, Ontario Jacqueline Eunice Davis, M.S.M. (civil division) Vancouver, British Columbia Lieutenant-Colonel Donald James Denne, M.S.M., C.D. (military division) Downsview, Ontario and Hantsport, Nova Scotia Brian John Halbert, M.S.M. (civil division) Rocky Mountain House, Alberta Major Bruce Henwood, M.S.M., C.D. (Retired) (civil division) Calgary, Alberta Klaas P. Huisman, M.S.M. (civil division) Apeldoorn, The Netherlands Colonel Murray Caister Johnston, M.S.M., C.D. (retired) (military division) Ottawa, Ontario Sister Odette Lefebvre, M.S.M. (civil division) Montreal, Quebec Elizabeth MacFarlane Grandbois, M.S.M. (civil division) Burlington, Ontario Major Pericles (Perry) Metaxas-Mariatos, M.S.M., C.D. (military division) Brunssum, The Netherlands and Kingston, Ontario André Michel, M.S.M. (civil division) Mont-Saint-Hilaire, Quebec Lieutenant-Colonel John David Mitchell, M.S.M., C.D. (military division) Ottawa, Ontario, and North Bay, Ontario Captain (N) Gary Alfred Paulson, M.S.M., C.D. (military division)* Victoria, British Columbia Colonel Joseph Armand Marc Pouliot, M.S.M., C.D. (military division) Ottawa, Ontario and St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec Susan Rose, M.S.M. (civil division) Sackville, New Brunswick Kevin John Saylor, M.S.M. (civil division) Kahnawake, Quebec Master-Corporal James Robert Sharp, M.S.M., C.D. (military division) Washington, D.C., U.S.A. and Port Hope, Ontario Lieutenant-Colonel Stuart James Sharpe, M.S.M., C.D. (military division) Kingston, Ontario Lieutenant-Colonel Gordon Lindsay Smith, O.M.M., M.S.M., C.D. (military division) Kingston, Ontario, and Trenton, Ontario Elisabeth (Lisa) Angelika Stinson, M.S.M. (civil division) Calgary, Alberta Lieutenant-Colonel Christopher Calvin Thurrott, M.S.M., C.D. (military division) Ottawa, Ontario and Halifax, Nova Scotia Lieutenant Commander Richard Brian Tilley, M.S.M., C.D. (military division) Ottawa, Ontario and Halifax, Nova Scotia Christine Wandzura, M.S.M. (civil division) Calgary, Alberta John D. Wiebe, M.S.M. (civil division) West Vancouver, British Columbia Brigadier-General Francis John Wiercinski, M.S.M. (military division), United States Army Dickson City, Pennsylvania, U.S.A. and Fort Campbell, Kentucky, U.S.A. Captain (N) Kelly Edward Williams, M.S.M., C.D. (military division) Ottawa, Ontario, and Victoria, British Columbia * This is the second award of a Meritorious Service medal to Capt (N) Paulson. ANNEX C MILITARY DIVISION Chief Warrant Officer Daniel Rodney Bradley, M.S.M., C.D. Petawawa, Ontario and Ottawa, Ontario Meritorious Service Medal (military division) In 2003, CWO Bradley was deployed as the Regimental Sergeant-Major of the 3rd Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment Battalion Group, Kabul Multi-National Brigade, on Operation ATHENA, in Afghanistan. Under his direction, basic procedures and techniques, including proper levels of supervision, were drilled into the Battalion Group. The result of his efforts was a highly disciplined unit ready to meet the challenges on the streets of Kabul. CWO Bradley's steadfast leadership and dedication became evident in the aftermath of the two hostile attacks that resulted in the death of three of the Battalion Group's soldiers. His remarkable performance during this highly stressful period exemplified the reputation of the Canadian Forces within a widely diverse international environment. Honorary Colonel William J. Coyle, O.Ont., M.S.M., Bolton, Ontario Meritorious Service Medal (military division) Since 1997, HCol Coyle has distinguished himself as Honorary Colonel of the Canadian Forces School of Aerospace Technology and Engineering. In that capacity, he has continuously provided excellent support and guidance, devoting countless hours of time and effort in support of a myriad of activities. Throughout his tenure, he has been a dynamic volunteer in a number of eminent military affiliations, such as Vice-Chairman of the Canadian Forces Liaison Council (Ontario), and as a member of the Prime Minister's Advisory Group on Science and Technology. Renowned internationally as an authority dedicated to global aerospace affairs, HCol Coyle has greatly contributed to the military community and heritage. Lieutenant-Colonel Donald James Denne, M.S.M., C.D. Downsview, Ontario and Hantsport, Nova Scotia Meritorious Service Medal (military division) In 2003, LCol Denne was the Commanding Officer of the 3rd Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment and the Canadian Battalion Group part of the International Security Assistance Force with the Kabul Multi-National Brigade, Task Force Kabul, Afghanistan. His leadership and exemplary dedication to the mission were key aspects in the establishment of a high level of security and safety for thousands of Afghan citizens attempting to rebuild their lives. Displaying great compassion in the face of the loss of life and injury to his Battalion Group, he set an example of loyalty, integrity and responsibility through his devotion to the care and well-being of the injured soldiers and grieving families affected by the mine strike south of Kabul, earning the respect and admiration of countless local and foreign military commanders. Colonel Peter John Devlin, O.M.M., M.S.C., C.D. Carlisle, Pennsylvania, U.S.A. and London, Ontario Meritorious Service Cross (military division) Col Devlin was Acting Brigadier-General and Commander of the Kabul Multi-National Brigade on Operation ATHENA, in Afghanistan, from July 2003 to January 2004. Understanding the importance of building good relations through mutual respect, Col Devlin personally met all the key players of the Afghan Transitional Authority, his allied coalition and his NATO partners. He was involved in the creation of a joint security coordination centre where military, police and para-military organizations shared information and developed the common goal of safeguarding citizens and the Afghan Transitional Authority. Col Devlin distinguished himself by his exceptional dedication to the mission, during an extremely complex and strategic situation. Chief Warrant Officer Wayne Arnold Ford, M.M.M., M.S.C., C.D. Petawawa, Ontario and Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island Meritorious Service Cross (military division) CWO Ford was deployed as the Kabul Multi-National Brigade Sergeant-Major on Operation ATHENA in Afghanistan, in 2003. He has acted as an ambassador for Canada and the Canadian Forces by establishing and maintaining key relationships with Afghan political and military personnel, thus ensuring the accomplishment of the Brigade's mission. His energy and enthusiasm contributed significantly to the organization and maintenance of Camp WAREHOUSE, the Brigade soldiers' living spaces. CWO Ford played a leading role in guaranteeing the success of Operation ATHENA and his contributions to the daily operations of the Brigade reflected highly on Canada in an international environment. Colonel Murray Caister Johnston, M.S.M., C.D. (retired), Ottawa, Ontario Meritorious Service Medal (military division) Col Johnston (retired) has served with tireless dedication and selflessness as Colonel Commandant of the Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Branch of the Canadian Forces since 1991. His visits across Canada and to soldiers deployed throughout the world, along with his participation in countless charitable and volunteer military support organizations, the publication of two authoritative books on the history of the Branch, and the development of the Branch's Honour Roll, have been instrumental in bridging the gap between the sacrifices made by Canadian Forces veterans and today's serving soldiers. Major-General Andrew Brooke Leslie, O.M.M., M.S.C., M.S.M., C.D. Kingston, Ontario and Ottawa, Ontario Meritorious Service Cross (military division) MGen Leslie was deployed as the Commander for Task Force Kabul and also served as Deputy Commander of NATO's International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) of Operation ATHENA in Afghanistan, from August 2003 to February 2004. He guided the ISAF team of 2,200 members to exceptional results, and in doing so, ensured that a safe and secure environment was maintained within Kabul, while building mutual respect between the Afghan Transitional Authorities and the ISAF coalition partners. MGen Leslie's outstanding leadership, dedication and tireless efforts were pivotal to the successful completion of this mission. Major Pericles (Perry) Metaxas-Mariatos, M.S.M., C.D. Belleville, Ontario and Kingston, Ontario Meritorious Service Medal (military division) Maj Metaxas-Mariatos was the Senior Liaison Officer of the NATO Headquarters Skopje during Operation ALLIED HARMONY in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, from January to July 2003. With remarkable diplomatic skills, he dealt with all issues of border management and security. Maj Metaxas-Mariatos' selfless, untiring pursuit of greater stability with Macedonia and the Western Balkans in the sector of inter-border security has left an indelible mark of dedication to duty on both the national and international stage. Lieutenant-Colonel John David Mitchell, M.S.M., C.D. Ottawa, Ontario, and North Bay, Ontario Meritorious Service Medal (military division) LCol Mitchell was the Commanding Officer of the first Canadian Long Range Patrol Detachment deployed to the Arabian Gulf region during Operation APOLLO, from January to July 2002. Under his leadership, the unit contributed significantly to operations at sea in the global campaign against terrorism. He achieved this in spite of considerable adversity, a host nation with vastly different working norms and the complexity of integrating into a United States-led coalition operation. With diplomatic adroitness and outstanding professionalism, LCol Mitchell has led his aircrews to achieve an unprecedented mission completion rate by successfully detecting and locating elusive high interest vessels. His achievements have brought great credit to the Canadian Forces and to Canada. Captain (N) Gary Alfred Paulson, M.S.M.*, C.D. Victoria, British Columbia Meritorious Service Medal (military division) Capt(N) Paulson is recognized for his outstanding performance in command of HMCS Algonquin and his unfailing support to the Commander of Task Group 307.1 during Operation APOLLO from April to September 2002. His guidance and focus during the operational mission resulted in the greatest number of compliant boardings as well as the capture of four al-Qaeda suspects. His professionalism as flag ship captain permitted the effective command and control of both Canadian and coalition ships in support of the war against terrorism. His exemplary leadership has brought great credit to himself, to the Canadian Forces and to Canada. * This is the second award of a Meritorious Service Medal to Captain (N) Paulson. Colonel Joseph Armand Marc Pouliot, M.S.M., C.D. Ottawa, Ontario and St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec Meritorious Service Medal (military division) Col Pouliot was Commander of the Theatre Activation Team for Operation ATHENA – the Canadian contribution to the International Security Assistance Force in Kabul, Afghanistan, from April to August 2003. He was responsible for commanding the advance headquarters, negotiating and setting up all logistical arrangements, planning and overseeing the contribution of a 1900-person camp in a remote area of Kabul, and organizing the reception of all equipment and personnel. Col Pouliot's strong leadership, resourcefulness and dedication were exemplary and greatly influenced the successful outcome of the Operation. Master-Corporal James Robert Sharp, M.S.M., C.D. Washington, D.C., U.S.A. and Port Hope, Ontario Meritorious Service Medal (military division) In 2003, MCpl Sharp was instrumental in the establishment of a new intelligence group within the Canadian Forces, and worked with senior officers in developing the concept of operations for the deployment of a team to Operation ATHENA in Kabul, Afghanistan. Once in theatre, he took on the duties of Operations Warrant Officer for the team and managed the Intelligence Collection plan. He routinely liaised with leaders of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF), the Kabul Multi-National Brigade, and the Canadian Defence Liaison Staff in Washington and Ottawa to foster a more efficient intelligence collection and coalition effort among the numerous nations in theatre. The operability of our Canadian Intelligence capability was an invaluable contribution to the success of this mission, thanks to MCpl Sharp's dedication and professionalism. Lieutenant-Colonel Stuart James Sharpe, M.S.M., C.D., Kingston, Ontario Meritorious Service Medal (military division) LCol Sharpe was Commanding Officer of the Liaison and Reconnaissance Team and then Chief of Staff of the Theatre Activation Team for Operation ATHENA – the Canadian contribution to the International Security Assistance Force in Kabul, Afghanistan, from April to July 2003. He played a critical role in deciphering a multitude of chaotic and complex issues that impacted on the initial set-up and deployment of the Canadian Task Force. An outstanding leader, LCol Sharpe ensured the protection and security of personnel, equipment and operations during the early stages of Operation ATHENA. His professionalism and commitment to the mission far exceeded the normal demands of duty. Lieutenant-Colonel Gordon Lindsay Smith, O.M.M., M.S.M., C.D. Kingston, Ontario, and Trenton, Ontario Meritorious Service Medal (military division) LCol Smith was the Commanding Officer of the first Canadian Tactical Airlift Detachment deployed during Operation APOLLO from January to July 2002. He led the first-ever six-month deployment of a CC130 Hercules Air Detachment into an austere desert airfield over 17 000 kilometres away and from which his crews flew almost daily into Afghanistan. LCol Smith's exceptional management skills and personal example were directly responsible for the unit's outstanding mission completion rate and unblemished safety record. Under his brilliant leadership, the unit served as an essential link in the air bridge which sustained coalition and Canadian troops engaged in combat in Afghanistan, bringing great credit to the Canadian Forces and to Canada. Lieutenant-Colonel Christopher Calvin Thurrott, M.S.M., C.D. Ottawa, Ontario and Halifax, Nova Scotia Meritorious Service Medal (military division) LCol Thurrott was the Commanding Officer of 2 Service Battalion and of Task Force Kabul National Support Element on Operation ATHENA, in Afghanistan, in 2003. He used his experiences to coordinate sustainment within the Kabul Multi-National Brigade and on operations within the Task Force as a whole. He provided key insights and direction to the Army Support Review, and fostered relations between support organizations, both on preparatory exercises and in the operational theatre. LCol Thurrott displayed vision and professionalism in his management of difficult yet vital issues. His offer of support from the Canadian National Support Element to the Heavy Weapons Cantonment, when no other nation offered assistance, clearly had an impact on the overall success of this mission. Lieutenant Commander Richard Brian Tilley, M.S.M., C.D. Ottawa, Ontario and Halifax, Nova Scotia Meritorious Service Medal (military division) Widely recognized within the NATO Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Defence (NBCD) community for his expertise and negotiating skills, LCdr Tilley has distinguished himself, since 2002, through his dedication to the Prague NBCD Initiatives. He assisted the NATO Core Planning Team in defining, developing and validating these initiatives with a demanding completion date, and successfully conducted a NATO live agent training exercise as part of the activities. LCdr Tilley's professionalism, outstanding dedication and knowledge contributed greatly to the success of this undertaking. Brigadier-General Francis John Wiercinski, M.S.M. United States Army Dickson City, Pennsylvania, U.S.A. and Fort Campbell, À Kentucky, U.S.A. Meritorious Service Medal (military division) BGen Wiercinski, then Colonel, was instrumental to the success of the 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry Battle Group, which was subordinate to a formation of the United States Army during the war on terrorism in 2002. As Commander of Task Force Rakkasan, BGen Wiercinski inspired the Battle Group to perform to their fullest potential during Operation APOLLO/ENDURING FREEDOM. Under BGen Wiercinski's leadership and strong support, the Battle Group and its sub-units conducted numerous complex combat missions upon which the credibility of the entire coalition hinged. This American citizen's outstanding performance brought great honour to Canada. Captain (N) Kelly Edward Williams, M.S.M., C.D. Ottawa, Ontario, and Victoria, British Columbia Meritorious Service Medal (military division) With outstanding leadership as Commanding Officer of Her Majesty's Canadian Ship WINNIPEG during Operation AUGMENTATION from March to September 2001, Capt(N) Williams, then Cdr, enabled the ship and her crew to excel in all facets of her involvement as part of the USS CONSTELLATION Battle Group operations in the Arabian Gulf. He led his ship's company as the Maritime Interception Commander during 64 armed boardings, which resulted in the seizure of 14 000 metric tons of contraband Iraqi oil, a first for a Canadian ship. Capt(N) Williams' professionalism and dedication to duty contributed significantly to the excellent relationship that continues between the Canadian and United States navies. His focus on the mission reflected highly on our military traditions, bringing great credit to himself, to the Canadian Forces and to Canada. CIVIL DIVISION Charlene Alexander, M.S.M., Whitehorse, Yukon Susan Rose, M.S.M., Sackville, New Brunswick Meritorious Service Medal (civil division) In 1989, Charlene Alexander and Susan Rose founded the Great Northern Arts Festival in Inuvik, Northwest Territories. Held annually, the ten-day festival has grown into one of the premier events to celebrate and enhance northern arts and culture. It has become a venue for visual and performing artists, ranging from carvers and printmakers to traditional craftspeople, to showcase their works for the benefit of local visitors and world travellers alike. Through their drive and dedication, Ms. Alexander and Mrs. Rose have built a fledgling arts festival into a major cultural event that celebrates northern Canada's diversity and creativity. Suellen Beatty, M.S.M., Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Meritorious Service Medal (civil division) A passionate leader in the cause for improvement in long-term care, Suellen Beatty was instrumental in developing a $15 million project for Saskatoon's Sherbrooke Community Centre, which now provides a better home-like quality of life for its residents. In 1995, breaking with tradition, she initiated the "village concept", which groups together residents with similar needs, interests and culture. The innovative changes Mrs. Beatty has implemented have greatly contributed to reducing the monotony, loneliness and frustration that too often are the fate of those in long-term care. Douglas C. Bridge, M.S.M., Guelph, Ontario Meritorious Service Medal (civil division) Douglas Bridge led a remarkable public fundraising campaign for the building of the River Run Centre, a performing arts and meeting facility which opened in 1997 in downtown Guelph, Ontario. With outstanding determination and perseverance, Mr. Bridge managed to convince more than 1400 businesses and community leaders to contribute some $5.6 million, well over one third of the project cost, to bring about the construction of the world-class cultural centre for the benefit of the community. Lisa Susan Brown, M.S.M., Toronto, Ontario Meritorious Service Medal (civil division) In 1991, inspired and challenged by the talents and creativity of the patients with whom she worked, Lisa Brown founded the Workman Theatre Project (WTP) at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto. The first of its kind, this unique arts company offers some 40 training programs to its members, and produces high-quality theatre performed by professional actors, as well as by people who receive mental health services. Under Ms. Brown's leadership, WTP has staged numerous major productions which have become touring shows and have played in more than 30 theatres across Ontario. Heather Crowe, M.S.M., Ottawa, Ontario Meritorious Service Medal (civil division) Heather Crowe, a waitress for 40 years and a non-smoker, was diagnosed in the fall of 2002 with inoperable lung cancer caused by her lifelong occupational exposure to second-hand smoke. Despite her precarious health, she has since traveled across Canada to meet government officials, health workers and community activists, to encourage improvements in workers' protection from tobacco smoke. Ms. Crowe's experience also inspired a powerful media drive to help create smoke-free workplaces and to promote the importance of occupational health and safety everywhere in Canada. Jacqueline Eunice Davis, M.S.M., Vancouver, British Columbia Meritorious Service Medal (civil division) In 1995, breast cancer survivor Jacqueline Davis founded the First Nations Breast Cancer Society, which offers breast cancer education and support to First Nations women. Ms. Davis has participated in numerous workshops, school fairs, conferences, healing circles and public speaking engagements. She was also instrumental in developing culturally appropriate information pamphlets and videos, which have provided hope and strength to thousands of First Nations women. Brian John Halbert, M.S.M., Rocky Mountain House, Alberta Meritorious Service Medal (civil division) On August 14, 2000, Brian John Halbert, a helicopter pilot with Northern Air Support of Rocky Mountain House, Alberta, volunteered his services in order to rescue a young injured girl from a cliff at Cadomin Caves, southwest of Hinton, Alberta. Mr. Halbert was able to manoeuvre his helicopter into the canyon and steady it at a hover within two feet of clearance from the rock wall, thus enabling the search and rescue team to retrieve the victim from the mountain ledge. Although he had no specific rescue training, Mr. Halbert demonstrated great skill and the highest standard of professionalism and personal dedication. Major Bruce Henwood, M.S.M., C.D. (Retired), Calgary, Alberta Meritorious Service Medal (civil division) Seriously injured during his tour of duty in Croatia, Bruce Henwood has fought relentlessly to ensure future military personnel in similar circumstances are adequately compensated. With exceptional leadership and perseverance, Mr. Henwood pursued his struggle to rectify a disparity in the benefits provided to serving and retired military members who sustained life-altering injuries in the performance of their duties. In 2003, his efforts resulted in the passing of federal legislation Bill C-44, recommending that adequate compensation be given to all military personnel injured during service, regardless of rank. Klaas P. Huisman, M.S.M., Apeldoorn, The Netherlands Meritorious Service Medal (civil division) In his capacity as Secretary of Foundation Liberation 45, Klaas Huisman, a citizen of The Netherlands, has provided continuity in commemorating the liberation of the town of Apeldoorn by Canadian troops at the end of World War II. A dedicated supporter and true friend of the veterans, Mr. Huisman hosted the retired members of the Canadian Forces who attended milestone celebration ceremonies. He was also one of the principal coordinators of pilgrimages and festivities marking the 55th Anniversary of the liberation of Apeldoorn by Canadians, in 2000. Sister Odette Lefebvre, M.S.M., Montreal, Quebec Meritorious Service Medal (civil division) Sister Lefebvre is the guiding force behind a social organization that provides an adapted workplace for people with hearing impairments and multiple disabilities. In 1994, she founded the Atelier Mélisande, an organization that works in cooperation with the Association Action Plus, which she also established. In addition to overseeing staff and volunteer training in these centres, Sister Lefebvre demonstrates an unstinting commitment to creating an environment in which her protégés can grow, develop their potential and improve their living conditions. Elizabeth MacFarlane Grandbois, M.S.M., Burlington, Ontario Meritorious Service Medal (civil division) In 1997, after being diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), better known as Lou Gehrig's disease, Elizabeth MacFarlane Grandbois became an international advocate and spokesperson for ALS. In an effort to raise awareness and generate funding for research, improved care facilities and equipment, Mrs. MacFarlane Grandbois spearheaded Elizabeth's Concert of Hope, held annually since 2001. Thanks to her selfless determination and commitment to the cause, the event, which features renowned Canadian performers, has since raised more than $1 million in the battle against this devastating illness. André Michel, M.S.M., Mont-Saint-Hilaire, Quebec Meritorious Service Medal (civil division) It was with the aim of promoting and providing a better appreciation of Aboriginal life and culture that world-renowned painter, sculptor and cultural ambassador André Michel established la Maison des cultures amérindiennes in Mont-Saint-Hilaire, Quebec. Since its opening, more than 20 000 people have visited the exhibitions, or attended animation workshops, conferences and gastronomic tastings at this facility, the only one of its kind located outside a reserve in Canada. Mr. Michel's objective is to help visitors become more aware of the social context of Native people today and to foster mutual understanding. Susan Jill Sampson, M.S.C., Qualicum Beach, British Columbia Meritorious Service Cross (civil division) In 1995, Dr. Jill Sampson founded Poco a Poco, or "little by little", after becoming aware of the urgent and obvious need of Guatemala's poorest citizens for improved medical, surgical and dental care. Through this organization, she has collected and overseen periodic shipments of an impressive quantity of medication, equipment and medical supplies to Guatemala and made travel arrangements for the approximately 150 volunteer doctors, surgeons, dentists and nurses she recruits annually. In addition to providing essential care, these professionals train Guatemalan doctors to help them improve the care they dispense. Dr. Sampson's dedication and her exceptional qualities in the area of public relations bring honour to her profession and to Canada. Danièle Sauvageau, M.S.C., Saint-Lambert, Quebec Meritorious Service Cross (civil division) As Head Coach, Danièle Sauvageau led the Women's Canadian Olympic Hockey Team to victory at the 2002 Olympic Winter Games in Salt Lake City, Utah. The team captured the first ever Olympic gold medal in that discipline, when it defeated the USA in the final game. Selected as the Coaching Association of Canada's official spokesperson in July 2002, Ms. Sauvageau has since lobbied to promote the essential role of coaches, in particular the importance of increased participation by women in coaching positions. Kevin John Saylor, M.S.M., Kahnawake, Quebec Meritorious Service Medal (civil division) In l993, Kevin John Saylor founded and became Artistic Director of the Drama Project, a popular theatre initiative offered within the Kahnawake Shakotiia'takehnhas Community Services. By staging theatrical productions, Mr. Saylor has inspired the Mohawks of the Kahnawake Nation community to support the creative arts, while helping children, youth and adults alike in developing positive ways of self-expression through drama and music. Elisabeth (Lisa) Angelika Stinson, M.S.M., Calgary, Alberta Meritorious Service Medal (civil division) As a tribute to her brother who died in the line of duty, Lisa Stinson established, in 1993, the Constable Rick Sonnenberg Memorial Society, through which she launched the Helicopter Airwatch for Community Safety (HAWCS) project. Under her leadership, $1.5 million have been raised to provide the Calgary Police Service with a patrol helicopter equipped to offer support and surveillance activity to ground-based police units. Thanks to Ms. Stinson's efforts, Calgary became the first municipal police agency in Canada to establish a full-time patrol helicopter. Christine Wandzura, M.S.M., Calgary, Alberta Meritorious Service Medal (civil division) Since the death of her nine-year-old son due to cancer, Christine Wandzura has devoted herself to fundraising for a series of camps throughout Alberta for children with cancer. In 1994, she launched Kids Cancer Camps of Alberta, which expanded, in 1999, into the Kids Cancer Care Foundation of Alberta. The organization provides programs and funding in three project areas: camps and community; clinical support for families of cancer patients; and pediatric oncology research. Ms. Wandzura's dedication and commitment have greatly benefited her community and contributed to improving the lives of children living with cancer. John D. Wiebe, M.S.M., West Vancouver, British Columbia Meritorious Service Medal (civil division) Since 1993, John Wiebe has been president and chief executive officer of GLOBE Foundation of Canada, a private organization that engages Canadian industries, government agencies and financial institutions in environmental and energy business opportunities and projects around the world. Under Dr. Wiebe's leadership, the Foundation has produced the GLOBE series of exhibitions and trade fairs, one of the most prestigious venues in the world for the practical involvement of business in the improvement and protection of the environment. Through his commitment and drive, Dr. Wiebe has greatly contributed to the enhancement of Canada's reputation as an international champion of environmental management.
