OTTAWA, Oct. 3, 2016 /CNW/ - His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, will present honours during two ceremonies on Wednesday, October 5, 2016, at 9:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., at the Residence of the Governor General at the Citadelle of Québec.
More than 60 Canadians will be recognized for their excellence, courage or exceptional dedication to service with one of the following honours: an Order of Merit of the Police Forces, a Decoration for Bravery, a Meritorious Service Decoration, a Polar Medal or a Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers.
The Governor General presents honours on behalf of all Canadians in communities across the country to help share inspiring stories, celebrate tremendous contributions to our society and connect with Canadians. From community volunteers to astronauts, from actors to members of the military, from scholars to everyday citizens, hundreds of Canadians earn our applause and gratitude. For more information about honours or to nominate someone who inspires you, visit www.gg.ca/honours.
A media schedule for the ceremonies, background information on honours (Annex A) and lists of recipients and their citations for the morning and afternoon ceremonies (Annexes B and C) are attached.
Media wishing to cover these ceremonies must contact the Rideau Hall Press Office the day before the ceremonies. Accreditation must be shown at the Citadelle gate (1 Côte de la Citadelle, near the Saint-Louis Gate) prior to accessing the residence via the administration door.
MEDIA SCHEDULE FOR CEREMONIES
Media are asked to observe the following schedule:
| Morning ceremony (9:30 a.m.) |
|
| 8:45 a.m.: |
Media start to arrive at the Citadelle |
| 9:30 a.m.: |
Ceremony begins |
| The Governor General speaks |
|
| The Governor General presents the honours |
|
| 10:30 a.m.: |
Interviews with recipients |
| Afternoon ceremony (2:00 p.m.) |
|
| 1:15 p.m.: |
Media start to arrive at the Citadelle |
| 2 p.m.: |
Ceremony begins |
| The Governor General speaks |
|
| The Governor General presents the honours |
|
| 3 p.m.: |
Interviews with recipients |
Please note that the information in this media advisory reflects the rank of the recipients at the time of the event for which they are being recognized.
ANNEX A
BACKGROUND INFORMATION ON CANADIAN HONOURS PRESENTED AT THE CITADELLE OF QUÉBEC
About the Order of Merit of the Police Forces
Established in October 2000, the Order of Merit of the Police Forces honours the leadership and exceptional service or distinctive merit displayed by the men and women of the Canadian Police Services, and recognizes their commitment to this country. The primary focus is on exceptional merit, contributions to policing and community development. There are three categories of membership: Commander, Officer and Member.
About the Decorations for Bravery
Created in 1972, Decorations for Bravery recognize people who risk their lives and choose to defy their own instinct of survival to try to save a loved one or a perfect stranger whose life is in immediate danger. The three levels of the Decorations for Bravery reflect the degree to which the recipients put themselves at risk: the Cross of Valour recognizes acts of the most conspicuous courage in circumstances of extreme peril; the Star of Courage recognizes acts of conspicuous courage in circumstances of great peril; and the Medal of Bravery recognizes acts of bravery in hazardous circumstances.
About the Meritorious Service Decorations
The Meritorious Service Decorations celebrate Canadians who have performed an exceptional deed or activity that brings honour to Canada. The decorations are separated into military and civil divisions, with two levels each: a cross and a medal.
The Military Division recognizes a military deed or activity that has been performed in a highly professional manner or of a very high standard that brings benefit or honour to the Canadian Armed Forces and to Canada.
The Civil Division recognizes remarkable contributions in many different fields of endeavour, from advocacy initiatives and health care services, to research and humanitarian efforts. The contributions can be innovative, set an example for others to follow, or improve the quality of life of a community. For more information or to nominate a deserving Canadian, visit merit.gg.ca.
About the Polar Medal
The Polar Medal celebrates Canada's northern heritage and recognizes persons who render extraordinary services in the polar regions and in Canada's North. As an official honour created by the Crown, the Polar Medal incorporated and replaced the Governor General's Northern Medal, created in 2005 by then-Governor General the Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson.
About the Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers
The Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers recognizes the exceptional volunteer achievements of Canadians from across the country in a wide range of fields. As an official Canadian honour, the Medal for Volunteers incorporates and replaces the Governor General's Caring Canadian Award. The Medal builds on the legacy and spirit of the Caring Canadian Award by honouring the dedication and commitment of volunteers. For more information or to nominate a deserving volunteer, visit caring.gg.ca.
ANNEX B
RECIPIENTS AND CITATIONS – MORNING CEREMONY (9:30 A.M.)
MEMBERS OF THE ORDER OF MERIT OF THE POLICE FORCES
Superintendent Paul A. Beesley, M.O.M.
Orillia, Ontario
For his development of techniques to manage major criminal cases and for his exemplary leadership in the investigation of multi-jurisdictional homicides, financial crime and corruption.
Sergeant Robert C. Daly, M.O.M.
Armstrong, British Columbia
For his prolonged dedication to victims of domestic violence, through his leadership, education and engagement of outside agencies; and for developing province-wide protocols aimed at preventing violence and enhancing public safety.
Deputy Chief Timothy Farquharson, M.O.M.
Peterborough, Ontario
For his role in creating the Peterborough Drug Strategy Task Force, and for his tireless support for the Canadian Mental Health Association.
Staff Sergeant Robert Ellwood Lemon, M.O.M.
Coquitlam, British Columbia
For his profound impact on reducing traffic fatalities and preventing sexual assault in the community; and for his extensive service as a member of the provincial tactical troop.
Chief Inspector Pierre Pinel, M.O.M.
Rimouski, Quebec
For his sustained contributions to improving police practices, relations with partners and citizen engagement through the Sûreté du Québec, as well as for his innovative strategies to incorporate volunteers into public safety mechanisms at the provincial level.
Sergeant Robert Montgomery Tan, M.O.M.
Etobicoke, Ontario
For his exemplary performance in both domestic and international operations that has impacted the conduct of police investigations and garnered multinational respect; and for his leadership during an extensive assignment with an RCMP Emergency Response Team.
Staff Sergeant James Vardy, M.O.M. (Retired)
Prince Rupert, British Columbia
For his exemplary leadership of the Pacific West unit, and for his contributions to dispute resolution, emergency response and border enforcement in the marine environment along the British Columbian coast.
Staff Sergeant Lauren Weare, M.O.M.
Prince George, British Columbia
For the strong relationships she has built between the RCMP and the communities she serves, notably among First Nations citizens and women victims of violence.
DECORATIONS FOR BRAVERY
Lilianne Bessette, M.B.
Saint-Jean-Sur-Richelieu, Quebec
Medal of Bravery
On September 2, 2014, Lilianne Bessette came to the assistance of a friend who had fallen from a 15-metre cliff into the Atlantic Ocean, in Fatima, Îles-de-la-Madeleine, Quebec. Ms. Bessette, who was already in the water, swam to the badly injured victim and towed him a distance of 300 metres to shallower waters. She then attempted to find help, but not before returning to the victim's side to move him to a protruding rock where he would be safe from the rising tide. Exhausted and struggling with hypothermia, she remained with her friend during the four-hour ordeal until help arrived.
Keven Blanchette, M.B.
Saint-Félix-De-Dalquier, Quebec
Michel Côté, M.B.
Lebel-Sur-Quévillon, Quebec
Jonathan Desrochers, M.B.
Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec
Éric Naud, M.B.
Chibougamau, Quebec
François Pollak, M.B.
Montbeillard, Quebec
Mario Guy Vaillancourt, M.B.
Val d'Or, Quebec
Medal of Bravery
On January 25, 2014, six miners risked their lives to rescue a colleague following a workplace accident in Desmaraisville, Quebec. The man was trapped beneath a large rock 30 metres below ground. For more than 20 minutes, the rescuers frantically worked to free the victim, disregarding the threat of other landslides occurring in the area. With the only light coming from their hard hats, they struggled to lift the boulder off the victim and bring him to safety.
The decorations awarded to Messrs. Blanchette, Côté, Desrochers, Pollak and Vaillancourt were presented to them at a previous ceremony.
Sylvain Tremblay, M.B.
Métabetchouan-Lac-À-La-Croix, Quebec
Medal of Bravery
On December 8, 2014, Sylvain Tremblay rescued a man who was in danger of drowning at the Mont-Wright mine site in Fermont, Quebec. The driver was trapped in his tractor cab as it started sinking into the lake at the bottom of the open-pit mine. Mr. Tremblay received a distress call about the accident and quickly ran to the scene. Using a punch tool, he broke the cabin glass and lifted the unconscious victim out of the submerged tractor. He then put the victim on his back and, jumping onto broken pieces of ice, brought him back to safety.
Petty Officer 2nd Class André Aubry, M.B., C.D.
Esquimalt, British Columbia
Medal of Bravery
On February 27, 2014, Petty Officer 2nd Class André Aubry showed great bravery while fighting a major fire on board Her Majesty's Canadian Ship Protecteur. The ship was 600 kilometres from land when a malfunction caused an explosion and fire in the engine room where Petty Officer 2nd Class Aubry was located. He emptied several extinguishers onto the intensifying flames but was ultimately forced to retreat. However, his actions allowed his fellow crewmembers the required time to escape the room and for others to extinguish the fire.
MERITORIOUS SERVICE DECORATIONS (MILITARY DIVISION)
Commander Julian Andrew Elbourne, M.S.C., C.D.
Victoria, British Columbia
Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division)
On February 27, 2014, a catastrophic and potentially fatal engine room fire broke out on board Her Majesty's Canadian Ship Protecteur. As commanding officer, Commander Elbourne demonstrated critical, inspirational leadership and decision making that kept his crew focused and determined to save the ship under the most arduous sea conditions. Commander Elbourne's outstanding actions were instrumental in minimizing injuries and protecting the lives of the 300 crew, and in saving the ship from sinking.
Chief Petty Officer 1st Class Ian Mark Kelly, M.M.M., M.S.C., C.D.
North Saanich, British Columbia
Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division)
On February 27, 2014, Chief Petty Officer 1st Class Kelly demonstrated selfless dedication and outstanding leadership during and after a catastrophic engine room fire while at sea on board Her Majesty's Canadian Ship Protecteur. In the chaotic early stages of the fire, he personally led the effort to identify and locate missing crew. His boundless drive was essential in enabling the crew to fight the fire, and to overcome significant challenges during the long towing operation to port.
Lieutenant-Commander Jeffrey Murray, M.S.C., C.D.
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division)
As executive officer of Her Majesty's Canadian Ship Protecteur, Lieutenant-Commander Murray led his crew in successfully extinguishing the second-largest fire in the history of the Royal Canadian Navy on February 27, 2014. His decisions, actions and forceful determination were instrumental in saving the ship and protecting the crew. His professionalism in the aftermath of the fire kept the crew focused on preparing the ship for towing, allowing the ship to arrive safely in Pearl Harbor with no casualties.
Petty Officer 1st Class Michael Andrew Penner, M.S.C., C.D.
Victoria, British Columbia
Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division)
On February 27, 2014, during a major engine room fire at sea on board Her Majesty's Canadian Ship Protecteur, Petty Officer 1st Class Penner displayed exceptional leadership and unmatched technical acumen under extremely dangerous conditions. His rapid decisions and tireless actions in a smoke-filled compartment prevented catastrophic explosions and serious injury or death. Petty Officer 1st Class Penner demonstrated outstanding situational awareness during the incident.
Leading Seaman Andrew Christopher Astles, M.S.M.
Victoria, British Columbia
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
On February 27, 2014, while facing one of the most difficult situations at sea, Leading Seaman Astles demonstrated outstanding professionalism and leadership following a major fire on board Her Majesty's Canadian Ship Protecteur. As attack team leader, he played a critical role in protecting lives and successfully extinguishing the fire. Leading Seaman Astles' dedication and performance throughout the fire and subsequent towing operation were critical to the safe arrival of the ship and crew.
Captain Michael Gibbons, M.S.M.
Victoria, British Columbia
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
On February 27, 2014, as pastoral support to Her Majesty's Canadian Ship Protecteur, Captain Gibbons displayed outstanding leadership and professionalism during a catastrophic fire while at sea. With an exceptionally calm demeanour, he was instrumental in maintaining order and motivating the crew to fight the fire. Fueled entirely by his dedication to the crew's well-being, he continued at an intense pace for weeks afterwards, effectively managing and prioritizing personnel issues and the quick transfer of personnel requiring movement back to Canada.
Leading Seaman Curtis Lee Korolyk, M.S.M.
Victoria, British Columbia
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
On February 27 2014, Leading Seaman Korolyk displayed outstanding commitment and leadership in the face of grave danger during a major engine room fire while at sea on board Her Majesty's Canadian Ship Protecteur. He entered the intense heat and flames of the fire zone five times, volunteered for the hazardous duty of locking the propeller shaft, and acted as on-scene commander in the boiler room. Leading Seaman Korolyk's contribution to the successful firefighting efforts helped protect the ship and crew.
Petty Officer 1st Class Peter Ronald John Storie, M.S.M., C.D.
Cobble Hill, British Columbia
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Petty Officer 1st Class Storie demonstrated outstanding professionalism under difficult conditions while restoring power to Her Majesty's Canadian Ship Protecteur following a catastrophic engine room fire on February 27, 2014. He ingeniously resolved problems with emergency generators to restore temporary electrical power to the ship. These complex repairs were made possible due to his selfless actions in returning to the fire zone to retrieve parts and equipment. Petty Officer 1st Class Storie was instrumental in extinguishing the fire and supporting the crew during the subsequent towing operation to port.
Major Stéphann Grégoire, M.S.M., C.D.
Montréal, Quebec
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
From June 2008 to March 2015, Major Grégoire distinguished himself as a key executive and visionary with 2 Air Expeditionary Wing in Bagotville, Quebec. His innovative approach, leadership and dedication helped to bring about a remarkable evolution in the expeditionary capacity of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). A proactive leader, Major Grégoire established the first operations-support element, a vital tactical element of the RCAF's air expeditionary operations, all to his credit.
MERITORIOUS SERVICE DECORATIONS (CIVIL DIVISION)
Philippe Gélinas, M.S.M.
Roxboro, Quebec
Meritorious Service Medal (Civil Division)
Philippe Gélinas founded l'Atelier du Conte en Musique et en Images Inc. to raise awareness of how medieval music has shaped Quebec's culture. History comes alive through concerts and workshops in communities across Canada, as audiences see, hear and sometimes play the cittern, dulcimer, hurdy gurdy, crumhorn, sackbut and lute. These are just a few of the more than 30 replicas of traditional instruments that the group features through its distinctive storytelling.
POLAR MEDAL
Petty Officer 1st Class Yves Bernard, C.D.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
A Royal Canadian Navy port inspection diver with expertise in robotics, Petty Officer 1st Class Yves Bernard made significant contributions to the discovery of the wreck of Sir John Franklin's HMS Erebus in 2014. He was among the first divers and the very first navy sailor to dive down to the site since Franklin's crew disembarked the Erebus 165 years earlier.
Donat Savoie, C.Q.
Montréal, Quebec
Donat Savoie is an expert on Inuit governance with over 30 years of experience in Aboriginal sovereignty negotiations. He is also a leading advocate for the prevention of homelessness in Nunavik, as well as for services and shelters for homeless Inuit in Montréal. He is committed to making Inuit culture known throughout Canada and is a champion of Canada's North and its communities.
SOVEREIGN'S MEDAL FOR VOLUNTEERS
Élise Audet
Shannon, Quebec
Élise Audet began volunteering in her community in 1988, when she offered to help out at the local flea market. Her goal was to help disadvantaged families obtain reasonably priced, quality clothing. At that time, she also volunteered at the library, sharing her passion for reading with young and old alike. Since 2011, she has dedicated her time to military families, ensuring that activities organized for them run smoothly; she also bakes cookies, which are sold to benefit the United Way.
Micheline Bélanger
Montréal, Quebec
For five years, Micheline Bélanger has been an ambassador for the Canadian Cancer Society, fighting for stricter tobacco controls in Quebec and reduced exposure levels for young people in the province. A lung cancer survivor and a former smoker, she shares her story to encourage others to choose healthier lifestyles and to help convince the Quebec government to adopt new measures to protect youth.
Simon Bonnelly
Québec, Quebec
In 2006, Simon Bonnelly began volunteering for the Centre de parrainage civique de Québec, a citizen advocacy organization where, for the past nine years, he has been matched with one of the program participants, has represented volunteers at meetings with the board of directors, and has helped with fundraisers. Citizen advocacy promotes the social participation of individuals facing various challenges by helping them to overcome their isolation and allowing them to regain control of their lives.
Jacques Bouchard
Petite Vallée, Quebec
Jacques Bouchard has always been actively involved with youth, particularly in Ontario, Quebec and Manitoba, where he has organized several relay races to raise funds for blind children. Through judo and the Canadian Cadet Movement, he has assisted many young people in the Gaspé with their personal development.
Sabrina Boucher
Chicoutimi, Quebec
Sabrina Boucher helped establish the Saguenay chapter of Special Olympics Quebec in 2010, and has since provided dynamic leadership as a soccer and snowshoeing coach, volunteer, fundraiser and local coordinator. She inspires the athletes and helps them work together to achieve their greatest potential, so much so that many have gone on to successfully compete at the provincial and national levels.
Paul Clarke
Montréal, Quebec
For close to three decades, Paul Clarke has dedicated his time to helping others living with HIV and chronic pain through his involvement in various organizations including AIDS Community Care Montreal. His efforts have fostered greater mobility and support for residents in need.
Monique Ferland
Granby, Quebec
Monique Ferland is passionate about helping others to discover and love nature, inspiring them to do their part to beautify our communities. That is why, for over 10 years, she has been volunteering her time to promote woodland conservation, raise environmental awareness through conferences and create green spaces within the town of Granby.
André Gamache
Saint-Jean-Sur-Richelieu, Quebec
In 2005, André Gamache founded Collaboration Québec-Haïti, a non-profit organization that helps disadvantaged communities in Haiti. He has also volunteered with his parish, with the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul and with the local food drive, has helped to raise funds for the Canadian Cancer Society, and assists individuals in filing their tax returns.
Leslie Hay
Pointe-Claire, Quebec
Leslie Hay volunteers his time with various local organizations, notably at a drop-in centre for people suffering from mental health issues. For 35 years, he has never missed a single Terry Fox Run, and through annual golf tournaments, bottle drives and a silent auction, he has raised $350 000 for the organization.
Donat Thériault
Fredericton, New Brunswick
Donat Thériault, the Jeux de l'Acadie's first president, has been working to ensure the success of this East Coast Francophone sports event since it first began. Thanks to his leadership and perseverance as an extraordinary organizer, thousands of young people have had the opportunity to discover a wide range of sports.
ANNEX B
RECIPIENTS AND CITATIONS – AFTERNOON CEREMONY (2 P.M.)
MEMBERS OF THE ORDER OF MERIT OF THE POLICE FORCES
Chief Stephen E. Covey, M.O.M., M.S.M.
Montréal, Quebec
For his outstanding leadership as an investigator and program manager of the RCMP's Organized Crime Branch, and as chief of the CN Police Service in Canada, through which he has improved rail safety in many local communities.
Director Denis Desroches, M.O.M.
Longueuil, Quebec
For fostering a culture of innovation, notably as director of the Service de police de l'agglomération de Longueuil, and for developing new services geared at creating safer communities.
Inspector Stuart K. Eley, M.O.M.
Toronto, Ontario
For his consistent high performance and attention to detail in a multitude of roles, from fraud investigation and community planning to the Economic Summit Security Task Force; and for his role in the Community Policing Support Unit, where he utilized a proactive, community-based model and addressed such groups as the Canadian Centre for Police Race Relations.
Deputy Director Bernard Lamothe, M.O.M.
Montréal, Quebec
For his sustained contributions to the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal, notably for his work to increase the safety of citizens and front line police officers in the fight against terrorism, as well as for his leadership of many complex criminal investigations.
Sergeant Clifford T. Priest, M.O.M.
St. Catharines, Ontario
For his more than 20 years of dedication to reducing fatal traffic accidents in the region by using collision reconstruction, youth education and strategy development; and for his voluntary support of civilian charitable organizations.
Superintendent Peter C. Yuen, M.O.M.
Toronto, Ontario
For his leadership of the Toronto Police Service's Asian Organized Crime Task Force, notably in aiding individual victims, influencing revisions to human trafficking laws, and educating both civilians and law enforcement personnel; and for his roles as a youth mentor and advocate, and as the founder of a community-based scholarship program.
MERITORIOUS SERVICE DECORATIONS (CIVIL DIVISION)
Paul Dubé, M.S.C.
Edmonton, Alberta
Jean-Claude Mahé, M.S.C.
Knowlton, Quebec
Angéline Martel, M.S.C.
Montréal, Quebec
Meritorious Service Cross (Civil Division)
Concerned parents Paul Dubé, Jean-Claude Mahé and Angéline Martel helped ensure access to quality education for minority Francophone communities across Canada. Their advocacy work set a legal precedent that resulted in parents obtaining the right to representation on school boards with the goal of improving minority language instruction and facilities. These efforts have strengthened Canada's identity as a bilingual and inclusive nation.
The decorations awarded to Mr. Dubé and Mr. Mahé were presented to them at a previous ceremony.
Parker Mitchell, M.S.C.
Westport, Ontario
George Roter, M.S.C.
Toronto, Ontario
Meritorious Service Cross (Civil Division)
In 2000, University of Waterloo undergraduate students Parker Mitchell and George Roter founded Engineers Without Borders. What began as a student-run club eventually grew into an innovative international organization that helps African countries access technologies, combat poverty and improve lives. Through their tireless efforts, Mr. Mitchell and Mr. Roter mobilized hundreds of young Canadian engineers to make a lifelong commitment to community service both at home and abroad.
Robert Walsh, M.S.C.
Montréal, Quebec
Meritorious Service Cross (Civil Division)
As president and CEO of Forensic Technology Inc., Robert Walsh was the visionary behind the Integrated Ballistics Identification System, an automated imaging and analysis program that has revolutionized the way firearm crimes are investigated. Thanks to the technology developed by Mr. Walsh, police forces worldwide have a common platform through which they can share vital information, help combat gun violence and improve public safety.
Karen Goodyear, M.S.M.
Mississauga, Ontario
Meritorious Service Medal (Civil Division)
Karen Goodyear founded Children of Hope Haiti in 2002 to aid disadvantaged students and to build a new generation of Haitian leaders. The organization continues to support communities devastated further by the 2010 earthquake by sponsoring local schools, investing in wells for safe drinking water, and providing goats to families as sources of both sustenance and income.
SandraClarke, M.S.M.
Philip D. Hiscock, M.S.M.
Robert Hollett, M.S.M.
Harold J. Paddock, M.S.M.
St. John's, Newfoundland And Labrador
Meritorious Service Medal (Civil Division)
Dr. Sandra Clarke, Dr. Philip Hiscock and Professor Robert Hollett built on the earlier work of linguist Dr. Harold Paddock to create the Dialect Atlas of Newfoundland and Labrador, an online record of the province's unique linguistic features. Their combined efforts have helped preserve the historic dialects of the region and contributed to our country's cultural knowledge.
The decorations awarded to Dr. Clarke, Dr. Paddock and Professor Hollett were presented to them at a previous ceremony.
Terry E. Yates, M.S.M.
Ancaster, Ontario
Meritorious Service Medal (Civil Division)
Terry E. Yates stepped into the role of chair of the board of directors to save the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington, Ontario, from bankruptcy. After two years under his leadership, this impressive conservatory of plants and thriving bird sanctuary have become a vital part of the Niagara Escarpment World Biosphere Reserve.
CANADIAN BRAVERY DECORATIONS
Hichem Ayoub, M.B.
Saint-Léonard, Quebec
Medal of Bravery
On March 4, 2015, Hichem Ayoub rescued a man from a burning house in Montréal, Quebec. When he noticed that the building was on fire, Mr. Ayoub entered the smoke-filled home on his hands and knees, feeling his way around until he found the victim in the hallway. After returning outside to catch his breath, he went back into the house to grab the victim, whose clothing had caught fire, and brought him to safety.
Safaa Baggar, M.B.
David del Rosario, M.B. (posthumous)
Montréal, Quebec
Medal of Bravery
On June 22, 2014, Safaa Baggar and David del Rosario attempted to rescue a friend from a possible drowning in the Ouareau river, near Rawdon, Quebec. The victim was swimming near the Dorwin falls when she appeared to be in trouble, which rallied her friends to her aid. Mr. del Rosario dove in, but was overcome by the strong current and disappeared over the falls. Ms. Baggar also struggled in the rough waters and momentarily lost consciousness before reaching her friend. The victim and Ms. Baggar ultimately managed to get out of the water on their own; unfortunately, Mr. del Rosario lost his life.
The decoration awarded to the late Mr. del Rosario will be received by his mother, Mrs. Maria del Rosario.
Jean-François Bouchard, M.B.
Alma, Quebec
Medal of Bravery
On March 24, 2015, Jean-François Bouchard came to the rescue of a farmer who was trapped in a grain silo in Saint-Gédéon, Quebec. Mr. Bouchard saw that his colleague was being buried by the grain and immediately jumped in. He uncovered the man's face so that he could breathe. Despite the danger of being buried himself, Mr. Bouchard stayed by his colleague's side in -20° temperatures for over 45 minutes, until emergency services arrived.
Constable Mark Fiset, M.B.
Sainte-Thérèse, Quebec
Constable Jessie James Fontaine, M.B.
Schefferville, Quebec
Constable Jean-Pierre Lavigne, M.B.
Vaudreuil, Quebec
Medal of Bravery
On December 8, 2012, Naskapi Police Force constables Mark Fiset, Jessie James Fontaine and Jean-Pierre Lavigne rescued a detainee from a fiery death at the police station in Kawawachikamach, Quebec. The fire had spread quickly, filling the station with thick, toxic smoke. The constables took turns running inside the structure in a desperate attempt to reach the victim trapped inside his cell. They finally managed to unlock the door and pull the man out. Despite suffering the effects of smoke inhalation, they were able to remove the victim and bring him to safety.
POLAR MEDAL
Warwick Vincent
Terrebonne, Quebec
A professor of biology at Université Laval and the Canada Research Chair in Aquatic Ecosystem Studies, Warwick Vincent is an internationally renowned limnologist. He has done extensive research on aquatic microbial ecology, light and primary production, and ecosystem responses to climate change with an emphasis on Arctic and Antarctic waters. Additionally, he has heightened the understanding of environmental change in Canada's North through his strong leadership as the scientific director at le Centre d'études nordiques in Québec.
SOVEREIGN'S MEDAL FOR VOLUNTEERS
Norman Austin
Lewisporte, Newfoundland And Labrador
Norman Austin has been a snowshoeing and athletics coach and mentor with Special Olympics Newfoundland and Labrador and with the Gander Wings Club for 12 years. He has helped athletes train and build confidence through sport at the local, provincial and international levels, helping them reach their fullest potential.
Dominique DesRosiers
Dieppe, New Brunswick
Since 2010, Dominique DesRosiers has been involved with the activities of the 43e Groupe de Gilwell–Scoutisme traditionnel–Dieppe as a scouter . She is also an active member of the Youth Action Committee with the City of Dieppe's Leisure and Recreation Facilities Department.
Stéphane Hachey
Bathurst, New Brunswick
An outstanding volunteer, Stéphane Hachey plays an active role in ensuring the success and reach of sports events, notably as president of the Société des Jeux de l'Acadie and as a volunteer during the Canada Games and Olympic Games. In addition, he has coached sports teams and given numerous workshops to develop Acadian youth leadership.
Leo Johnson
Moncton, New Brunswick
Over the past 40 years, Léo Johnson has supported his community by volunteering for numerous charitable organizations, notably Nazareth House. Since February 2013, he has dedicated at least 40 hours per week to Second Chance Workshop, the organization he founded to give unemployed workers the skills they need to re-enter the labour market.
Dora Lanteigne
Caraquet, New Brunswick
Dora Lanteigne joined the Centre de Bénévolat de la Péninsule Acadienne and is involved in numerous aspects of community life, contributing to the development of preschool-aged children and providing support to women with breast cancer. She also coordinates a team of 250 volunteers for the Festival acadien and the 2016 Jeux de l'Acadie.
Adelaïde La Plante
Moncton, New Brunswick
For 15 years, Adélaïde La Plante volunteered to help guide the Canadian Cancer Society in ensuring its programs and services met the needs of New Brunswickers. She also served on many occasions as a supporter and spokesperson for critical cancer control issues.
Raoul Lincourt
Mascouche, Quebec
Since retiring in 2000, Raoul Lincourt has become a full-time volunteer with community-based human rights organizations. President and an active volunteer with the Action des chrétiens pour l'abolition de la torture for 12 years, he has been a strong advocate on behalf of people who have been incarcerated and tortured around the world.
Mélanie Monique McGrath
Cocagne, New Brunswick
In her many volunteer roles, including as president of the Jeux de l'Acadie, Mélanie Monique McGrath has always been an outstanding spokesperson and has established ties between the games and other Francophone organizations to benefit all Acadian youth.
Jennifer Patton
Westmount, Quebec
Jennifer Patton has been involved in Westmount's Healthy City Project since 1991, and has chaired the Environment Committee for the past 15 years, where she encourages indigenous gardening, coordinates volunteers, and raises funds and awareness through community events. She continues to promote environmental sustainability as well as help the city and its residents make environmentally friendly choices.
Christian Payeur
Québec, Quebec
Christian Payeur has dedicated his life to volunteerism and, since 2006, has focused on his responsibilities as co-founder and board chair of the Fondation Monique-Fitz-Back, which promotes environmental education and a healthy environment with a view to sustainable development. He oversees strategic planning, volunteer recruitment, educational development and orientation, and financial partner searches.
Marc Provost
Saint-Nicolas, Quebec
Co-founder of the Fondation Gilles Kègle in 1986, and president since 1998, Marc Provost is a key figure within the organization, which helps the disadvantaged, sick and elderly by providing home care services. The foundation was able to expand thanks to his volunteer efforts to obtain the funding needed to support the administrative and logistical needs of the work of Gilles Kègle, nicknamed "the street nurse."
Odette Sabourin-Dumais
Saint-Bruno-De-Montarville, Quebec
For over 20 years, Odette Sabourin-Dumais has been committed to encouraging citizen environmental responsibility and beautification through community involvement. She shares her expertise with a number of municipalities to enhance their green spaces, and she contributed to the development and success of America in Bloom, modeled after Communities in Bloom.
Marie Senécal-Tremblay
Montréal, Quebec
For over 25 years, Marie Senécal-Tremblay has preserved and promoted Canada's cultural heritage through the Canadian Federation of Friends of Museums (CFFM), the Heritage Montreal Foundation, the McCord Museum and the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. Under her leadership, CFFM was reorganized to draw increased public engagement and wider appreciation for our culture.
SOURCE Governor General of Canada
Marie-Pierre Bélanger, Rideau Hall Press Office, 613-998-9166 (office), 613-852-3248 (cell), [email protected]
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