June 21, 2005
Ottawa -- The Honourable Albina Guarnieri, Minister of Veterans Affairs, presented 13 outstanding Canadians from across Canada with the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation today for their service to their fellow Canadians.
"These remarkable veterans, by their personal daily involvement with others, have enriched the lives of those they have touched," stated Minister Guarnieri. "They have given selflessly of their time and their energy to actively promote the value of remembrance and ensure that our veterans receive the care they so richly deserve. They are truly an inspiration to us all."
The Commendation was presented to:
Christian Couture - St. Gédéon, Quebec
Russell Dillabough - Deep River, Ontario
Larry Gray - Carleton Place, Ontario
Laurence Harrison - Maple Ridge, British Columbia
Ken Henderson - Montréal, Quebec
William (Bill) Judge - Peterborough, Ontario
Laurence Motiuk - Ottawa, Ontario
Laurent E. Rivard - Boucherville, Quebec
Edward Rogers - Katevale, Quebec
Wallace Smith - Peterborough, Ontario
William Steel - Shellbrook, Saskatchewan
Gordon Strathy - Petawawa, Ontario
Lloyd Swick - Ottawa, Ontario
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 at www.vac-acc.gc.ca.
2005 is the Year of the Veteran! Celebrate. Honour. Remember. Thank. Teach.
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Media Enquiries:
Janice Summerby
Media Relations Advisor
Veterans Affairs Canada
(613) 992-7468
Corey Hobbs
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
(613) 996-4649
All Other Enquiries:information@vac-acc.gc.ca
