THUNDER BAY – Fourteen citizens from Ontario and one from Gatineau (Quebec) were honoured today for their commitment and dedication to Veterans. The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, presented these individuals with the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation during a ceremony in Ottawa. “These individuals have made a real and lasting difference with their service and dedication to our nation’s truest heroes,” said Minister Blaney. “On behalf of all Canadians, I am proud to acknowledge their extraordinary efforts in helping to provide the care and recognition our Veterans and their families deserve. Today we recognize their hard work and we honour them.”
The Minister presented the Commendation to the following individuals:
| Irvin Andrews, Petawawa, ON | Renald Paquette, Ottawa, ON |
| William Black, Ottawa, ON | Albert Revie, Ottawa, ON |
| Patricia Drew, Gatineau, QC (Posthumous) | Alton Sutton, Carleton Place, ON |
| Irene Elms, Thunder Bay, ON | Martin Vermeer, Tweed, ON |
| Karen Foubert, Ottawa, ON | Jon Wadleigh, Ottawa, ON |
| Frederick McAleer, Ottawa, ON | Jacqueline Walter, Fenelon Falls, ON |
| Ron McGuire, Ottawa, ON | Glenn Wilberforce, Gananoque, ON |
| Dalton McIntyre, Ottawa, ON |
The Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation includes a bar, which can be worn below official decorations on a Veteran’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.