Ottawa – Sixteen citizens from Eastern Ontario and one citizen from Laval, Quebec, were honoured today for their commitment and dedication to Veterans. Ms. Eve Adams, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs, presented these individuals with the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation at a ceremony in Ottawa.
"Today, our Government is proud to recognize a number of outstanding individuals who devote their lives to honouring the sacrifices and contributions of our nation’s heroes," said Minister Steven Blaney. "These are men and women who, through their selfless dedication, have had a positive impact on the lives of Veterans and in celebrating the incredible achievements of our Veterans."
The following individuals received the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation:
- Paul Baiden, Ottawa
- John Barclay, Ottawa
- Calvin Bellamy, Stittsville
- Larry Brown (posthumous), Kirkland Lake
- Robert Campbell, Ottawa
- Sandra Delorme-Elliott, Amherstview
- Daniel Drapeau, Ottawa
- David Edgerton, Peterborough
- Michael Gray, Omemee
- George Guertin, Ottawa
- Paul Kavanagh, Laval
- Michael McGrattan, Peterborough
- Craig McPhee, Stittsville
- Andrew Nellestyn, Stittsville
- Lee-Anne Quinn, Peterborough
- Joe Sharpe, Orleans
- Gardener Stevenson, Madoc
"These dedicated Canadians have worked to better the lives of our Veterans. They have each made significant contributions to the Veteran community," said Ms. Adams. "Today, we pay tribute to these outstanding individuals and their devotion to the men and women who have served our country."
The Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation includes a bar, which can be worn below official decorations on a recipient’s blazer, as well as a lapel pin for civilian wear and a certificate.
The Commendation is presented 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 some circumstances may also be awarded to non-Veterans. Nominations may be submitted at any time and are reviewed annually by an advisory committee.
Find more information on the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation, including the accomplishments and biographies of the recipients, at veterans.gc.ca.
2013 is the Year of the Korean War Veteran—Canada proudly remembers the heroes of the Korean War and their brave fight to uphold freedom, democracy and the rule of law.
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