14 Wing Greenwood is ending 2024 in an RCAF100 flurry of recognition, presenting the last two of its seven commemorative 100 Coins for 100 Canadians in December.
Wing Commander Colonel Luc Vachon and Wing Chief Warrant Officer Jonathan Proulx lured Greenwood Military Aviation Museum Society volunteers, chairman Ian Patrick and president and chief executive officer Brian Handley, to the museum on a closed day December 2 – only to surprise them with one of the RCAF100 coins.
“We thought it fitting – what better place than this?” Vachon said. “The museum is telling the story of the history of Greenwood from what it was – and what it will be. These coins are not just for individuals, but for organizations who help support the day-to-day operations of the base, and keep things going.
“The Greenwood Military Aviation Museum makes a lot of sense as a recipient, and our intent is for you to display it – but we’ll leave that to you!”
Patrick, who coordinates museum displays, said the coin “in itself is an artefact.” Handley said they’d be sure to let the museum’s volunteer team know of the wing’s recognition of all their efforts and dedication, and the presentation of the coin.
Retired RCAF volunteer making an impact
That evening, Vachon and Proulx, in their Air Force blues, were no match for the array of ugly Christmas sweaters sported by members of the Kingston Lions Club, as they sat at the head table for the Lions’ monthly dinner meeting. As they stood to provide a guest presentation on 14 Wing happenings and future developments, they brought attention to the wing’s 2024 efforts to celebrate its own role in 100 years of the Royal Canadian Air Force, including the fact they had one RCAF100 coin left.
“And we’re here to present it tonight,” Vachon said, surprising Lion Pat Nixon (sporting one of the evening’s ugliest sweaters).
“Pat – your tireless dedication to the Kingston Lions, and as a cornerstone of charity events, community service, strengthening outreach and supporting families in our area; demonstrates a significant and positive impact on our community.”
Vachon went on to detail Nixon, a retired master warrant officer with 40 years of service in the RCAF, as a volunteer with the Kingston Greenwood Community Health Board, on the board of the Valley’s Community Living Alternative Society and involved with local family holiday hamper organization.
“It is an honour and a privilege to offer you this coin.”
