It was a night filled with celebration, recognition and admiration.
All three were well deserved and well earned for the nearly three dozen local residents who’ve either brought distinction to the community or deliver tireless efforts to help others in a myriad of capacities.
For those under that noteworthy umbrella, heartfelt gratitude was offered by Milton MP Adam van Koeverden Wednesday evening, as he presented the King Charles III Coronation Medal.
“This is the best part of the gig. We’re here to honour and celebrate extreme excellence in our community,” said the Olympic champion turned politician during the gathering at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 136. “It just brings me so much joy and privilege. It’s an enormous honour for me.”
A fellow Olympian, accomplished musician, renowned surgeon, former pro wrestlers turned philanthropists, global humanitarians and some highly-decorated veterans were among those recognized.
Also part of Milton’s newly-minuted King Charles III Coronation Medal fraternity were a highly-dedicated group committed to just about every worthy cause imaginable – from inclusivity to breaking down barriers for the disabled and disadvantaged to creating opportunities for youth.
Sharing a glimpse into the incredible work of those being honoured, van Koeverden touched on celebrations like this serve as a reminder of how special it is to be Canadian.
“It’s more important than ever that we say we’re proud to be Canadian, and that we act like we’re proud to be Canadian," said the MP, whose recognition of each winner was met with heartfelt applause from family and friends. "I tell you today is right up there with carrying the Canadian flag at the opening ceremonies of the Beijing Olympics. This is a special day.”
The local recipients are as follows:
- Frank Avila
- Mary Barnes
- Major Reza Ali Chaudhry
- Michael George Cochrane
- Elaine Cray
- Donna Danielli
- Sgt. Craig Dickie
- Don D’Souza
- Travis Gerrits
- Ismail Hassan
- Cheryl Hayles
- Dr. Song Hon Harry Kim
- Richard Lewis
- Billianne Lowry
- Correctional Officer Gideon Luty
- Cpl. Sarah Moore
- Denise Mule
- Peter Mule
- Cpl. Ferruccio Orlando
- Rev. Nina Page
- John Page
- Cpl. Daniel Philip
- Georgia Shaw
- Lt. Paula Simas
- Tiger Ali Singh
- Tiger Jeet Singh
- Tara Snea
- LCdr. Maria Sonya Sowa
- Capt. Satish Tarachandra
- Melanie Tremills
- Sheldon Williams
- Joseph Steve Yaworski
Created to mark King Charles III’s May 6, 2023 coronation, the Coronation Medal recognizes those who’ve made a significant contribution to a particular province, territory, region or community in Canada, or attained an outstanding achievement abroad that brings credit to the country.
The medal is being awarded to 30,000 Canadians this year.