April 27, 2005 Vancouver -- Gisèle Toupin, Regional Director General, Western Region, Veterans Affairs Canada, on behalf of the Honourable Albina Guarnieri, Minister of Veterans Affairs, presented the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation today to 13 outstanding Canadians from Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia for their service to their fellow citizens. During the ceremony, Ms. Toupin also launched "Remember," a musical tribute to veterans. Veterans Receive Ministerial Commendation Awards "These 13 remarkable veterans have given selflessly of themselves with the sole goal of being a positive force in others' lives and enriching their communities," said Minister Guarnieri. "They exemplify faithfulness, compassion and devotion, and continue to make a lasting difference for their fellow veterans and all Canadians." The commendation was presented to: Jack Ambler, Regina, Saskatchewan Howard Anderson, Punnichy, Saskatchewan Edward Gillette, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Claude Petit, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan James R. (Bob) Hannah, Drumheller, Alberta Val Rimer, Calgary, Alberta Thomas Cove, Victoria, British Columbia Leslie Deane, Burnaby, British Columbia Foster Griezic, Victoria, British Columbia Derek Irons, Vancouver, British Columbia Stewart Kelly, West Vancouver, British Columbia Stuart Soward, Victoria, British Columbia William Tanner, Peachland, British Columbia The Commendation is awarded to individuals who have contributed to the care and well-being of veterans and to the remembrance of their contributions, sacrifices and achievements. It is intended primarily for veterans, but in rare circumstances may also be awarded to non-veterans. The Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation consists of a bar, which can be worn above or below official decorations on a veteran's blazer, a lapel pin for civilian wear and a certificate. More information, including an image of the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation, can be found on the Veterans Affairs Canada Web site. 'Remember' CD Launch 'Remember' is a CD of popular wartime tunes performed by youth in recognition of the 60th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. The CD also includes original songs written from today's perspective. The CD aims to bring together today's youth with songs from the past associated with times of conflict and sacrifice, bridging generations of Canadians through music. "Music can express so much more than words," said Ms. Toupin in launching the CD. "This remembrance project is a touching tribute for veterans and will also reach our youth." The CD was produced by Rainbow Stage Inc., a Winnipeg-based non-profit musical theatre organization, in partnership with Veterans Affairs Canada. Funding for the project was provided under the Veterans Affairs Partnership Contribution Program. 2005 the Year of the Veteran: Celebrate. Honour. Remember. Teach. Thank. - 30 - Media Enquiries: Janice Summerby Media Relations Advisor Veterans Affairs Canada (613) 992-7468 Allison Zegalski Regional Director Prairie Region Veterans Affairs Canada (204) 983-1893 Corey Hobbs Director of Communications Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs (613) 996-4649 All Other Enquiries: information@vac-acc.gc.ca
