Minister Blaney Honours Exceptional Citizens at a ceremony in Québec City

QUÉBEC CITY, March 14, 2013 /CNW/ - Twelve Canadian citizens from the province of Quebec and one Canadian citizen residing in North Carolina were honoured today for their commitment and dedication to Veterans. The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Minister for La Francophonie, presented these individuals with the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation at a ceremony in Québec City.

"Today, our Government is proud to recognize a number of outstanding individuals who devote their lives to honouring the sacrifices and contributions of our nation's heroes," said Minister Blaney. "These are Canadians who, through their selfless dedication, have had a positive impact on the lives of Veterans and in celebrating the incredible achievements of our Veterans."

The Minister presented the Commendation to the following individuals:

Jean-Paul Bertrand, Saint-Jacques-le-Mineur Michel Crowe, Brossard Daniel Demers, St-Blaise-sur-Richelieu Marcel Girardeau, Shawinigan-Sud Robert Groulx, Sherbrooke Victor Marshall, North Carolina, U.S.A. Alphonse Martel, Repentigny

Douglas McAdam, St-Bruno Elphège Renaud, Québec Gérard Renaud, Montréal Gordon Ritchie, St-Laurent Roger Soucy, Saint Hyacinthe Georges Villemure, Shawinigan-Sud

The Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation includes a bar, which can be worn below official decorations on a recipient'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.

Find more information on the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation, including the accomplishments and biographies of the recipients, at veterans.gc.ca.

2013 is the Year of the Korean War Veteran—Canada proudly remembers the heroes of the Korean War and their brave fight to uphold freedom, democracy and the rule of law.

SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada

For further information:

Media inquiries:

Janice Summerby
Media Relations Advisor
Veterans Affairs Canada
613-992-7468     

Jean-Christophe de le Rue
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
613-996-4649