LOCAL VETERAN AWARDED THE SOVEREIGN'S MEDAL FOR VOLUNTEERS

On Tuesday May 18, 2021, Member of Parliament for Simcoe North Bruce Stanton made a stop in Coldwater to make a virtual announcement about the latest round of emergency funding for Legion branches. While in town, he also made a special presentation of a medal to a member of the Coldwater branch.

“It was my great honour to congratulate Coldwater Branch 270 President, Normand Marion on his much-deserved Sovereign Medal for Volunteer award," said M.P. Bruce Stanton, as he presented the medal on behalf of the Governor-General of Canada. "Usually bestowed by the Governor-General of Canada, this is the highest award for lifelong volunteerism from the Canadian Chancellery of Honours.” he said.

The medal recognizes the exceptional volunteer achievements of Canadians from across the country in a wide range of fields and pays tribute to the dedication and commitment of volunteers.

The citation for Normand's award states: "Normand Marion has contributed to the military community of Coldwater as a public relations manager, researcher, and fundraiser with various organizations, including the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 270 Coldwater. His investigations into First and Second World War casualties have shed light on the town’s military history and helped memorialize those who served."

"I feel very much humbled by this recognition," said Norm Marion, as he received the medal. "I can think of so many others who have done so much more than I did, and who are more deserving of this award, but were

never nominated. I'm certainly grateful to those who took the time to research and submit my nomination. Thank you."

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

Top right: Branch 270 Coldwater President, Comrade Norm Marion (left) receives the Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers from M.P. Bruce Stanton. (Photo by Wanda Beaudoin)

Bottom right: Comrade Norm Marion shows the Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers he just received. (Photo by Wanda Beaudoin)