OTTAWA—His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, will officially open the exhibit From Far and Wide – Honouring Great Canadians, at 90 Wellington Street, on Thursday, May 17, 2012, at 10:00 a.m. This public exhibit celebrates Canada’s national honours and the extraordinary contributions of Canadians from across the country and from all walks of life. It also includes the work of the Canadian Heraldic Authority in creating coats of arms and other national emblems.
Since 1967, the Canadian Honours System has recognized thousands of exceptional Canadians, on behalf of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, with the Order of Canada, Decorations for Bravery, Military Valour Decorations and other national honours.
“The act of granting honours is a gracious, tangible and lasting way to pay tribute to our citizens,” said His Excellency. “Some of the stories you will discover in this exhibit are about individuals who are innovative, brave, giving, dedicated and inspirational. We must take pride in these great Canadians and in what they have accomplished. Collectively, they give us a glimpse into the very heart and soul of our smart and caring nation.”
About the From Far and Wide exhibit
Featuring interpretative panels and multimedia elements, the exhibit, located in downtown Ottawa across from Parliament Hill (90 Wellington Street), provides an opportunity for visitors of all ages to learn more about Canada’s national honours and some of their recipients. Highlights include the first Order of Canada register, actual and historical medals awarded to Canadians, and the Royal Banner of King George VI, flown at Rideau Hall during the Royal visit of 1939.
From Far and Wide – Honouring Great Canadians is part of the Office of the Secretary to the Governor General’s public programming. For more information about this exhibit and other visitor services, please visit www.gg.ca/visitus. A fact sheet is also attached to this advisory.
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