Ottawa ON
Canada
Guy Parent, Canada’s Veterans Ombudsman, awarded the Veterans Ombudsman’s Commendation to four individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership on behalf of Veterans.
“These individuals’ remarkable efforts contribute to the betterment of the lives of Canadian Veterans.” said Mr. Parent. “I am very pleased to acknowledge their exemplary commitment to the fair treatment of Veterans and their families, the work they do is truly admirable.”
The Veterans Ombudsman’s Commendation is awarded to individuals and groups who work courageously and tirelessly to identify and advance issues on behalf of Veterans of the Canadian Armed Forces and the RCMP , and their families. The Ombudsman will present the commendations to the recipients during a short ceremony that will be held at a later date.
This year’s recipients are:
Jerome Burke is a dedicated ambassador for the Army, Navy & Air Force Veterans in Canada ( ANAVETS ). He served in various executive roles with ANAVETS over the past ten years and currently serves as Vice President of the Dominion Command and as their National Advocacy Committee Chairman. Jerome spearheaded major fundraising events for his ANAVETS ’ unit and many other organizations – raising tens of thousands of dollars for his community. Jerome is also member of the Royal Canadian Legion. With his extraordinary leadership, Jerome demonstrates the positive impact Veterans have on their communities. Jerome resides in New Waterford, Nova Scotia.
William (Bill) Gidley has contributed more than 10 years to the RCMP Veterans’ Association, including serving as Executive Director. In his recent role as National Advocate for the RCMP Veterans’ Association, Bill remained committed to promoting the fair treatment of Veterans and their families in accordance with the Veterans Bill of Rights. A noteworthy leader, Bill has been at the forefront of helping RCMP Veterans obtain benefits from Veterans Affairs Canada. Bill resides in Orleans, Ontario.
John D. Gillis has dedicated more than 50 years of tireless service to the Royal Canadian Legion, many years to the Korean Veterans Association and has held executive roles with the Army, Navy & Air Force Veterans in Canada ( ANAVETS ). His distinguished leadership and superlative work with the Deer Lodge Centre in Winnipeg exemplifies the deep concern he has for the welfare of the most vulnerable Veterans. John continues to be a committed, active member of the Deer Lodge Foundation Board and its Joint Veterans Committee. John resides in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
David Munro, currently serving as Zone Commander, South/Mid Vancouver Island, for the Royal Canadian Legion, has devoted more than 20 years to serving Veterans, including as President of the Canadian Peacekeeping Veterans Association. He actively participated in the development of the New Veterans Charter, and played a significant role in the crafting of the Seventh Book of Remembrance. With remarkable leadership, David was instrumental in the development of low income, quality housing for Veterans and seniors in his community, and in initiating the Cockrell House project for homeless Veterans, in Colwood. David resides in Chemainus, British Columbia.