A distinguished group of Okanagan and Shuswap locals were recently crowned with the royal honour of the King Charles III Coronation Medal.
On Friday, March 7 MP Mel Arnold presented the award to 20 area residents at a reception in the Enderby Drill Hall to recognize their contributions and achievements that have brought honour and recognition to Canada and the region.
"It is rare that medals are awarded to Canadians on behalf of the Sovereign, and this certainly adds to the importance and distinction of today's event for recipients, their families and communities," Arnold said at the event.
He added that in total, of 30,000 medals are being awarded across the country through a nomination process led by the Governor General and Members of Parliament.
The 20 recipients were honoured for a variety of life-long efforts that benefited their communities through support with mental health, education, community safety, food security and during crises such as wildfires. Others were also recognized for their invaluable contributions for veterans and their families, seniors and youth, while others advanced local history, arts and culture.
As MP, Arnold has had the opportunity to work and interact with some of the recipients, including the lone medal awarded posthumously to Falkland's Mervin Churchill, during which he teared up while reading many contributions of the man who died at 83 on Nov. 24, 2024.
"As a Member of Parliament, it is an honour to present these medals to such deserving individuals; their contributions to our communities and country are recognized and appreciated more than words can describe," Arnold said in conclusion.
"The people of the North Okanagan – Shuswap can be proud of these citizens from all corners of the riding recognized for their service and contributions benefiting our communities and Canada."
