By Kerry J Newstead
HALDIMAND—MP Leslyn Lewis awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal to 20 Haldimand-Norfolk residents in recognition of the distinguished service to both community and country.
Residents of both counties were invited to submit nominations, which were then considered based on their deeds, actions, and contributions to their community.
“These individuals have all made contributions that have strengthened our community, region, and nation – whether that be in areas of supporting medical research, working to support community feeding initiatives, or community service in many senses,” explained Lewis. “They have served generously, giving of their time and talents, some over the course of several decades. It is my honour to be awarding them this prestigious award, marking their many devoted years of service to our community.”
The award proceedings took place in the Old Town Hall of Waterford on Saturday, November 2, 2024.
The ceremony started with the participants being piped in by members of the North Shore Highlanders, Kevin McNeilly and Murray McKnight. The Master of Ceremony, Rev. Paul Sherwood, welcomed the guests. Following the singing of O’ Canada by McKnight, Lewis then spoke to the gathered crowd about the nomination process and the criteria for receiving the medal.
The medal was designed and minted in Canada, with King Charles himself approving the design and use of the medal.
Rev. Sherwood read the names of the winners as Lewis presented plaques and pinned the medal on the recipients. With each name, their contribution to the community was announced. There were volunteers, veterans, doctors, and more.
God Save the King was sung, and the recessional was led by the pipers. Afterward a small get together was held in the lobby of the town hall with treats catered by The Gibbled Goose.
“It was an honour to see so many residents of Haldimand and Norfolk who have given their hearts to build this community, to service our community, service to province, to our nation,” said Lewis.
She concluded, “And just seeing that these individuals can be honoured. And that can be here with their families to celebrate some sacrifices that they made to benefit our community.”
