Simply put, by Queen Elizabeth II’s intention, 97 14 Wing Greenwood Defence Team members recognized March 1 were “people who do things for other people.
“That’s the purpose of this medal: to recognize people who go out of their way to do good things for other people,” said His Honour The Honourable Arthur J. LeBlanc, ONS, KC, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia; who presented The Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee (Nova Scotia) Medals during a formal investiture at the Annapolis Mess.
“The Queen’s lifetime of service and dedication to Canada is something that will long be remembered. When we consider that, next year, the Royal Canadian Air Force will mark its 100th anniversary, and the Queen’s service is almost 70 per cent of that, it makes your history also one of distinction and service.
“You are a group of exemplary individuals who have played an important role in shaping our nation’s identity and securing our future. All Nova Scotians, and Canadians, find strength and integrity in the work you do.”
LeBlanc extended his congratulations and thanks to recipients’ parents and spouses, “who have stepped forward in pride and love as you serve.
“You miss dance recitals and soccer practices, and just the opportunity to be home to put kids to bed. This medal recognizes those supports as well.”
14 Wing Greenwood Commander Colonel Jeff Davis welcomed LeBlanc and Her Honor Mrs. Patsy LeBlanc to the wing, as guests at the medal presentation ceremony and for a later tour of wing sections.
“This medal was commissioned by someone who spent 70 years in service,” Davis said. “To me, that is tremendous – and to be compared to that as a recipient!
“Chief Warrant Officer (Jonathan) Proulx and I are extremely proud to be here today to recognize you, but also to recognize what you and 14 Wing members do every day. Wear this medal with pride, and motivation to keep doing what you’re doing here at work and in the community. You are representative of the whole team that allows us to do our business.”
While the event was shared via the wing’s MS Teams account, a number of guests were in attendance at the Mess. Davis also addressed recipients’ family members.
“Thank you for allowing us to get everything we can out of your spouse, parent, son or daughter.”
Their Honors were greeted at the Annapolis Mess by a wing honour guard, and the 14 Wing Greenwood Band provided the anthems. Major Tatchi Anouan was the emcee. A five-minute slide and video presentation highlighted Queen Elizabeth II’s five visits to Nova Scotia, the first in 1951 as princess and the last in 2002. Five thousand Nova Scotians will receive the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee (Nova Scotia) Medal, including approximately 850 members of the Canadian Armed Forces.
