OTTAWA, March 19, 2018 /CNW/ - Her Excellency the Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada, will present honours during a ceremony on Wednesday, March 21, 2018, at 2 p.m (PDT) at Government House, in Victoria.
Over 45 remarkable Canadians will be recognized for their excellence, courage or exceptional dedication to service with one of the following honours: the Order of Canada, the Order of Merit of the Police Forces, a Meritorious Service Decoration (civil division), a Decoration for Bravery, the Polar Medal or the 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 scientists, from actors to members of the military, from scholars to everyday citizens, Canadians earn our applause and gratitude. For more information about honours or to nominate someone who inspires you, visit www.gg.ca/honours. The ceremony will be streamed live online at www.gg.ca/live, starting at 2 p.m. PDT.
A schedule for the ceremony, the list of recipients with citations, and background information on the types of honours that will be presented are attached.
Media wishing to cover the ceremony are asked to confirm their attendance with the
Rideau Hall Press Office as well as with Government House (Rachel Rilkoff, 250-356-9499, [email protected]), and must arrive at Government House no later than 1:45 p.m.
CEREMONY SCHEDULE
Media are asked to observe the following schedule:
| 1:15 p.m.: |
Media start to arrive at Government House |
| 2 p.m.: |
Ceremony begins |
| The Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia offers welcoming remarks |
|
| The Governor General speaks |
|
| The Governor General presents the honours |
|
| The Governor General offers closing remarks |
|
| 3 p.m.: |
Interviews with recipients |
Please note that the information in this news release reflects the rank of the recipients at the time of the event for which they are being recognized.
RECIPIENTS AND CITATIONS
ORDER OF CANADA
Kathryn Shields, C.M., O.B.C.
Victoria, British Columbia
Kathryn Shields is a legend in Canadian women's basketball. A gifted international athlete, she gained further renown for her accomplishments as a coach of our national team. Concurrently, as head of the women's varsity team at the University of Victoria, she achieved unrivalled results and won numerous national championships. Athletes cite her influence in increasing their confidence, skill and focus both on and off the court. She is also committed to advancing women in coaching; her outspoken advocacy has led to greater female leadership in the sport.
ORDER OF MERIT OF THE POLICE FORCES
Deputy Commissioner Craig Callens, C.O.M., M.S.C.
Surrey, British Columbia
Deputy Commissioner Craig Callens has been a remarkable member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for over 30 years. His leadership in police operations, human resource management and community engagement has contributed to cultural change and a more respectful workplace within the RCMP.
Assistant Commissioner James Richard Douglas Gresham, O.O.M., M.S.C.
Surrey, British Columbia
Assistant Commissioner James Gresham has served with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for over 30 years. Responsible for the largest RCMP contract division in Canada, he has improved service standards, investigative models, and the health and safety of personnel.
Chief Constable Anthony Adam Palmer, O.O.M.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Chief Constable Anthony Adam Palmer has been a member of the Vancouver Police Department for 30 years. He was the venue commander at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics and has been sought nationally and internationally for his expertise on policing large events.
Superintendent James Richard Faulkner, M.O.M.
Victoria, British Columbia
Superintendent James Richard Faulkner has been a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for over 30 years. He contributed to the development of an integrated major crime unit comprising the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Victoria Police Department, leading to more effective policing.
Deputy Chief Constable David Scott Green, M.O.M.
Victoria, British Columbia
Deputy Chief Constable David Scott Green has served with the Saanich Police for over 25 years. He is involved in numerous policing committees, reviewing policing standards, policing funding models and strategies to prevent violence against women.
Corporal Brian Kerr, M.O.M.
Victoria, British Columbia
Corporal Brian Kerr has been a distinguished member of the Central Saanich Police Service and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for over 35 years. His investigative acumen, compassion and tenacity has been commended by several crown attorneys, mayors and community educators.
Staff Sergeant Darren Laur, M.O.M.
Victoria, British Columbia
Staff Sergeant Darren Laur served as a member of the Victoria Police Department for over 25 years and retired in March 2016. His project on body worn video was the first evidence-based study of police technology in Canada. His research led to significant changes in the way information would be shared in future policing technology.
Superintendent Gary Joseph Leydier, M.O.M.
Surrey, British Columbia
Superintendent Gary Joseph Leydier has been a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for 30 years. As the officer in charge of the Integrated Forensic Identification Services, he has developed innovative responses to improve the investigational results of the unit.
Superintendent Ward Clay Lymburner, M.O.M.
Surrey, British Columbia
Superintendent Ward Clay Lymburner has been a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for over 25 years. He is highly proficient in investigative software and has been deemed an expert by the Supreme Court of British Columbia in DNA warrant and evidence collection.
MERITORIOUS SERVICE DECORATIONS (CIVIL DIVISION)
Ron Abrahams, M.S.C.
Sarah Payne, M.S.C.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Physician Ron Abrahams and midwife Sarah Payne created a new model of health care for substance-using women and their drug-exposed newborns. As the driving force behind the Fir Square Combined Care unit at BC Women's Hospital and Health Centre, they introduced a holistic, compassionate approach where mothers room with their infants from day one while receiving medical care, addiction counselling, parenting education and help finding housing.
Charlene Belleau, M.S.C.
Esk'etemc First Nation, British Columbia
Chief Charlene Belleau is a catalyst for change in her home community of Esk'etemc First Nation, as well as throughout British Columbia and across the country. An advocate for improved health and social programs, a supporter of residential school survivors and of reconciliation, and a leader in the campaign to end violence against women, she is dedicated to community healing and to building respectful relationships.
Judy Graves, M.S.C.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Judy Graves designed and led the Vancouver Homeless Outreach Project, a program that helps homeless individuals secure a regular source of income and stable housing. Her model, based on compassion and respect, has changed how communities across the province approach homelessness and is the culmination of 30 years spent helping people living on the street to rebuild their lives.
Laurent Brisebois, M.S.M.
Émilie Bureau, M.S.M.
North Vancouver, British Columbia
Laurent Brisebois and Émilie Bureau created La Grande Traversée, a cross-Canada cycling relay that encourages high school students to adopt a healthy lifestyle and enables them to experience a unique opportunity to strive for excellence. This athletic challenge helps young people to be active, determined and engaged while strengthening ties between the various French-language school boards across Canada.
Cherie Elizabeth Davidson, M.S.M.
Victoria, British Columbia
In 1986, Cherie Davidson founded Island Heart to Heart, an education and support program for cardiac patients and their families. Its holistic approach incorporates nutrition, physical activity, stress management and information about medications and mental health into a seven-week program for participants recovering from vascular diseases. The first of its kind in the region, her model has been adopted as the standard of care for patients across Canada's west coast.
Barbara Finley, M.S.M.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Barbara Finley created Project C.H.E.F. (Cook Healthy Edible Food) in partnership with the Vancouver School Board to promote healthy eating habits among children by teaching them where food comes from and the pleasure of sharing it around a table. With infectious enthusiasm, she has helped thousands of students experience the satisfaction of working together to prepare fresh meals, gain confidence in the kitchen and learn about healthy food choices.
Merna Margaret Forster, M.S.M.
Victoria, British Columbia
Historian and author Merna Forster launched a successful campaign to include images of notable Canadian women on our banknotes through an online petition and a website where viewers could suggest worthy candidates. The publicity she generated resulted in rights activist Viola Desmond being chosen to appear on the ten-dollar bill and in increased appreciation for the many other heroines in our nation's history.
Constable Christopher Graham, M.S.M. (Retired)
Vancouver, British Columbia
Retired Vancouver Police constable Christopher Graham created a reality-based program for Junior A hockey players to learn about the dangers of drugs and crime. Participants tour Vancouver's Downtown Eastside where they witness first-hand the effects of substance abuse and gang-related activities. In their home communities, the teens visit school classes to describe what they have learned about life on the streets. Now part of the Odd Squad Production Society, this peer-to-peer mentorship program continues to inspire young people to make positive lifestyle choices.
David Granirer, M.S.M.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Comedian David Granirer founded Stand Up for Mental Health to empower individuals to confront their mental health issues through stand-up comedy. From Halifax to Victoria, as well as in Australia and the United States, Stand Up for Mental Health has helped thousands of individuals come to terms with their issues, improve their lives and combat the stigma surrounding mental health.
Karen Joseph, M.S.M.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Karen Joseph founded Reconciliation Canada to promote meaningful dialogue between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians about our shared past and, ultimately, to build a unified nation. Her grassroots initiatives included Vancouver's Walk for Reconciliation, history courses on residential schools for use by local school boards, and workshops for multicultural communities, all with the aim of forging a path towards reconciliation.
Jim Michie, M.S.M.
Pritchard, British Columbia
In 1999, while working for Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Jim Michie spearheaded a restorative justice program to deal with conflicts related to fisheries and wildlife infractions. Working outside the court system, he involved the community in addressing violations using traditional notions of respect and accountability. This innovative model was successfully used for many years throughout the region to reduce repeat offences and improve the department's relationship with Indigenous communities.
Brenda L. Montani, M.S.M.
Patrick M. Montani, M.S.M.
Kelowna, British Columbia
Brenda and Patrick Montani created Bicycles for Humanity, a volunteer organization that delivers used bicycles to Africa. The bicycles are used as a means of transportation as well as a way of improving quality of life in the community. In addition, the organization has trained local volunteers in bicycle maintenance.
Carey Newman (Ha-yalth-kingeme), M.S.M.
Sooke, British Columbia
Artist Carey Newman created The Witness Blanket as part of the ongoing reconciliation process between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. Woven into this two-metre by thirteen-metre structure are old doors, shoes, children's drawings and other artifacts collected from residential schools and their former students. The exhibit has travelled throughout the country, eliciting emotional responses from survivors and promoting a shared understanding of Canada's past.
Constable Doug Spencer, M.S.M.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver Police Department Constable Doug Spencer was instrumental in creating a stirring and graphic presentation called The Truth About Gangs that emphasizes the violent consequences of organized criminal activity. A member of the Odd Squad Productions Society, he delivers his blunt message about the dangers of gangs to thousands of parents, educators and teens.
DECORATIONS FOR BRAVERY
Juergen Baetzel, M.B.
Gray Creek, British Columbia
Brant Hannah, M.B.
Calgary, Alberta
Paul Hindson, M.B.
Crawford Bay, British Columbia
Tobias MacDonald, M.B.
Delta, British Columbia
Carol Van Ruymbeke, M.B.
Crawford Bay, British Columbia
On August 20, 2014, Juergen Baetzel, Paul Hindson, Tobias MacDonald, Carol Van Ruymbeke and firefighter Brant Hannah pulled two individuals from a burning plane that had crashed in Crawford Bay, British Columbia. The small aircraft burst into flames on impact. Despite the rapidly escalating fire, the rescuers worked together to successfully free the victims from the wreckage, minutes before an explosion occurred. Sadly, one of the victims did not survive.
The Medal of Bravery awarded to Ms. Van Ruymbeke will be presented to her at a future ceremony.
Constable Craig Barker, M.B.
Constable Paul Frederick Hykaway, M.B.
Victoria, British Columbia
On January 3, 2014, constables Craig Barker and Paul Hykaway, of the Victoria Police Department, entered a burning house in Victoria, British Columbia, to search for tenants. Knowing the blaze was spreading, Constable Hykaway ran beneath a burning deck and forced his way inside, with Constable Barker close behind him. Despite the heavy smoke and intense heat, the officers conducted a thorough search of the residence, confirming it was empty, before exiting to safety.
Janson Chapman, M.B.
Victoria, British Columbia
On March 6, 2017, Janson Chapman rescued his friend who had fallen into the frigid Lower Myra Falls, near Gold River, British Columbia. After finding his injured friend clinging to a log at the edge of the cascade, he ventured out onto the icy ledge and threw his jacket out for her to grab. As he attempted to pull her to safety, the jacket started to rip. Despite his precarious position, he inched closer to the victim, lifted her onto his back and brought her down to the base of the falls. He carried her for another 40 minutes until he reached his car and drove her to the nearest hospital.
Gregory James Swan, M.B.
Victoria, British Columbia
On July 18, 2015, off-duty firefighter Gregory Swan rescued a man from his burning vehicle near Medford, Oregon. The car had crashed into a tree on the side of a busy highway and burst into flames, trapping the driver inside. Enveloped by heavy smoke, Mr. Swan used a fire extinguisher on the blaze before he attempted to free the victim with the help of bystanders. The fire flared up again, but after dousing it a second time, Mr. Swan was able to pull the victim from the vehicle and move him to safety.
POLAR MEDAL
Gary Stern
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Gary Stern has greatly advanced our understanding of the transport of contaminants through the Arctic marine and freshwater ecosystems. Through his work as a research professor and associate director at the Centre for Earth Observation Science at the University of Manitoba, he has helped to shape national research priorities. In particular, he helped to link contaminant levels in Arctic marine food webs to the overall health of fish and marine mammal stocks.
Fay Trombley
Tuktoyaktuk, Northwest Territories
Sister Fay Trombley collaborated with local community leaders and built a partnership with the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul to address food insecurity in Tuktoyaktuk. By reinvigorating the food and clothing distribution centre, she demonstrated remarkable determination and leadership. The success of this partnership has become a blueprint for multiple northern communities similarly struggling with food insecurity.
SOVEREIGN'S MEDAL FOR VOLUNTEERS
Lilianne Barnabé
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Since her retirement from nursing, Lilianne Barnabé has been volunteering at St. Boniface Hospital for over 22 years. She welcomes countless visitors, patients and family members who look to her for comfort and informal counselling. She also contributed to the success of the hospital's Buhler Gallery, an art exhibit and performance space.
Christine Beaumont
Ste. Anne, Manitoba
Christine Beaumont has contributed to the vitality of the Francophone community in Manitoba as past chair of Francofonds, which funds economic development initiatives and projects throughout the province. Recently, she co-launched Tailored for Success, a program that provides new or gently used career clothing and accessories to disadvantaged men and women who are entering into the workforce or preparing for a job interview or training program.
Marielle Demorest
Richmond, British Columbia
Named the Woman of the Century in 2014 by the Alliance des femmes de la francophonie canadienne, Marielle Demorest has dedicated over 40 years to community service. An active volunteer and founder of multiple organizations such as the Association francophone de Richmond, she has promoted and preserved French language and culture in western Canada.
Jess Hansen
Terrace, British Columbia
Over the past 10 years, Jess Hansen has volunteered with the NorthWest Therapeutic Riding Association, which provides therapeutic riding to persons with developmental, physical and psychological disabilities.
David Kimpton
Richmond, British Columbia
For more than 50 years, David Kimpton has given unselfishly of his time in order to improve the quality of life for those around him, notably as a parishioner, a driver for Meals on Wheels and as a volunteer board member with Care BC.
Bernard LaFrance
Nanaimo, British Columbia
Bernard LaFrance volunteers at his church by helping with building and grounds maintenance. He is dedicated to serving his congregation, whether by transporting donated food to the local food banks or by driving fellow parishioners to and from church.
Tom Lott
Sooke, British Columbia
Tom Lott has served in a number of positions with the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 54, most recently as chair of the Poppy Campaign. He is involved in his church and with various community initiatives, and is also a volunteer driver for Cancer Drive, which transports patients to and from appointments in the region.
Chantal Moll
Vancouver, British Columbia
Chantal Moll has volunteered with the Heart and Stroke Foundation since 2010, and is a compassionate and dedicated advocate for cardiovascular research, education and prevention. As an ambassador, she represents the Foundation at cardiovascular congresses and is a much-anticipated speaker at the Foundation's Health Partner events.
Margaret Monro
Salt Spring Island, British Columbia
For decades, Marg Monro has volunteered with the Salt Spring Senior Services Society where she has established a caregiver support group that looks after Alzheimer's patients. She also volunteers with two other organizations focused on seniors.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION ON CANADIAN HONOURS
PRESENTED IN VICTORIA
About the Order of Canada
Created in 1967, the Order of Canada, one of our country's highest civilian honours, recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. Close to 7 000 people from all sectors of society have been invested into the Order. Their contributions are varied, yet they have all enriched the lives of others and have taken to heart the motto of the Order: DESIDERANTES MELIOREM PATRIAM ("They desire a better country"). Appointments are made by the governor general on the recommendation of the Advisory Council for the Order of Canada. There are three categories of membership: Companion, Officer and Member. For more information about the Order of Canada or to nominate someone, visit www.gg.ca/honours.
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 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 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 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 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 remarkable volunteer achievements of Canadians from across the country in a wide range of fields. As an official Canadian honour, the Medal pays tribute to the dedication and exemplary commitment of volunteers. For more information or to nominate a deserving volunteer, visit caring.gg.ca.
SOURCE Governor General of Canada
Media information: Sara Régnier-McKellar, Rideau Hall Press Office, 613-993-2569 (office), 613-301-2465 (cell), [email protected]
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