Kelowna – Eight citizens from Vancouver Island and the Interior of British Columbia were honoured today for their commitment and dedication to Veterans. Ron Cannan, Member of Parliament for Kelowna—Lake Country on behalf of the Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Minister of State (Agriculture), decorated these individuals with the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation during a ceremony in Kelowna.

“The Commendation recipients being honoured here today are heroes—not because they wield great power and influence,” said Minister Blackburn, “but because they care enough about our Veterans to come to their aid and to make great sacrifices on their behalf.” 

The Commendations were presented to the following individuals:

Jean Boyczuk, Trail                   
Alan King, Port Hardy            
Mary Cardiff, Kelowna               
Lou Lepine, Port Hardy
Edwin Findlater, Okanagan Falls                 
Douglas Walton, Coldstream        
Robert Hemphill, Port Hardy               
William Willbond, Saanichton

“I am proud of the citizens of Kelowna and all those from our proud province who have received the Commendation,” said Mr. Cannan.  “It shows British Columbians are second to none when it comes to honouring Canada’s Veterans.”

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, sacrifice 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. 
   
More information on the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation, including the accomplishments and biographies of the 8 recipients, can be found on the Veterans Affairs Canada Web site at www.vac-acc.gc.ca.