The Arctic Star medal recognizes Allied Veterans serving in the Arctic during the Second World War
Reference: N14045E
May 22, 2014 – Victoria, BC – Veterans Affairs Canada
Minister Julian Fantino joins recipients of the Arctic Star Medal (left to right) Mr. Edward Dallin, Mr. Roland Lavallee, Mr. James Russell and Mr. Norman Anderson following the inaugural Arctic Star Presentation Ceremony at the Lodge at Broadmead in Victoria, British Columbia.
The Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, today presented the first British Arctic Star medals to Canadian Armed Forces Veterans Norman George Alex Anderson, Edward Earl Dallin, Roland Jacques Lavallee, and James S. Russell at a ceremony in Victoria, British Columbia.
The Arctic Star, a military honour unveiled by the Government of the United Kingdom in 2012, is granted for operational service of any length north of the Arctic Circle from September 3, 1939, to May 8, 1945. It is available to all Commonwealth Forces, including members of the Canadian Armed Forces and Merchant Navy. The Government of Canada recently accepted the addition of the British Arctic Star to the Canadian Order of Precedence.
Many Canadians served on Allied convoys as they sailed across the Arctic Ocean during the Second World War to deliver vital supplies to the Soviet Union. Commonly known as the Murmansk Run, ships departed from North American ports and sailed to the northern Soviet Union in an effort to assist them in their fight against Germany. The mission is renowned for the brutal conditions and heavy casualties endured by the troops who served.
Nicholas Bergamini
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
613-996-4649
Media Relations
Veterans Affairs Canada
613-992-7468
