When we saw the invitation for nominations, we certainly felt that we needed to nominate Ron for this, because Ron had been outstanding in what he's done and how he's been able to affect change and affect making other people's lives better. Not only within our [RCMP] Association, but around him. Ron was, in all essence, the face of our Association to those in need. Not only was he that first call, but he also ran a program of visitation. It’s part of who we are, being able to make sure that families are supported. And Ron took that to the 10th degree.

Ron has not only inspired the people that he's worked with to help, but he's also inspired others within our Association to take on other areas of responsibility. It's truly remarkable the things that he has been able to accomplish for the Association - through his advocacy work, through his volunteerism, through his looking out for others.

Ron, you have made a difference. You have made a difference to other people's lives. And we took the opportunity to make sure that you got recognized for this as well. So congratulations, Ron.

R.G.’s work within the community has been on many different levels. He's worked with the homeless, he's worked with homeless Vets, he's got them shelter when they needed it. Other Veterans that he goes and visits when they're shut in - brings a lot of joy to them, knowing that there is somebody out there that takes the time and really wants to know how they're doing and to help them out.

The work that he does throughout the community, Veteran and otherwise, is outstanding. R.G.’s work with the ANAVETS and with the provincial command and his unit has really allowed me to have a guy that I can count on. And when I mean count on I mean every time. Anybody can always count on R.G. If you ask him to do something, he's going to get it done.

R.G., I hope you know that what you do for all of us and all the Veterans in our and your community is above and beyond. You set the example, you set the standard. And we all should be better people if we come close to what you do.

Can Praxis is horse equine therapy. Steve has always told me you can't lie to a horse. So using a horse as a medium, it builds people's confidence. It's so involved with the help that he's brought in, the expertise. But at the end of the day, it's about bringing people out of their shell, working with these magnificent animals.

I've known Steve since 1982. And the work that they do to support Veterans; not just Veterans, but first responders, children of Veterans, PTSD sufferers and the programs they run. It's just an impressive program that he's managed to put together over the years. I've seen the results of what Can Praxis does through its programs from the very beginning.

You know, you can see the tangible benefits that it brings to the people that partake in the program. It's making differences in people's lives. It's making lives better. Just proud of you. Proud of what you're doing and proud of what you continue to do with the organization.
 

Team Rubicon is a volunteer-based organization mainly made up of Veterans, first responders, and some civilians. I believe approximately 4000 volunteers, and they span from coast to coast to coast.

Team Rubicon, it helps people after a natural disaster. After a flood, a fire, Team Rubicon goes in and does what it does good, and that is help people who are in need. The effect on - especially the Veterans - it gives them a way to give back to Canadians in a volunteer base.

I had the opportunity to deploy with Team Rubicon in Nova Scotia after the fires that impacted so many people there. The stories and the feedback I got from that community was phenomenal. It changed me in a way that I just can't describe. They have really changed my life and all I can say is thank you Team Rubicon. I know they're going to help a lot more Veterans down the road.