Governor General Announces Creation of New Military Medal

      Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada, is pleased to announce that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II approved the creation of the Sacrifice Medal. The medal will be awarded to military personnel, members of allied forces or Canadian civilians working under the authority of the Canadian Forces, who suffered wounds or death caused by hostile action, on or after October 7, 2001.

      “Our soldiers deserve our utmost respect and deepest gratitude,” said the Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada. “This medal recognizes the valued contribution of those who sacrificed their health or their lives while serving Canada.”

      Applications will be processed through the usual military chain of command.

      An inaugural presentation ceremony will take place at Rideau Hall at a later date.

      For the artistic rendering of the Medal created by the Chancellery of Honours, please click on the following link: http://www.gg.ca/honours/medals/hon04-sm_e.asp

PM Statement on National Peacekeepers’ Day

      Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today to mark Canada’s first National Peacekeepers’ Day:

      “Today we honour those Canadians who have served as peacekeepers around the world.

      It was Canadians who invented peacekeeping. For decades members of the Canadian Forces have been the most enthusiastic participants in, and experienced leaders of, peacekeeping operations around the world. Peacekeeping is part of Canada’s strong military tradition. It is also a symbol of our country’s commitment to building a more safe and secure world.

      The word “peacekeeping” can be deceiving as it often involves service in some of the most dangerous regions of the world. Indeed, on this day 34 years ago, nine Canadians lost their lives while serving in a peacekeeping operation – the largest one-day loss of peacekeepers in Canadian history. Today we honor all who sacrificed so much in order to protect the lives of others.

      Peacekeeping is one of the examples why the world needs a strong and vigorous Canada. Today, with our investments in a modern military, Canada is better able to contribute to international operations that bring security and stability to those who need it most.

      On this day, I encourage all Canadians to say “thank you” to all of those who have served our country as peacekeepers. They, like everyone else who serves our country in uniform, continue to make their fellow Canadians proud.”

Central Ontario Chapter Recognized by Local Member of Parliament and Community.

      The e-mail below was sent by Doug Burden and passed on to the National President.

      Subsequently, the National President sent a congratulatory message to the Central Ontario Chapter Executive and membership for their excellence and achievements surrounding Peacekeepers Day.

----- Original Message -----

From: Doug Burden
To: Fern Taillefer
Sent: Saturday, August 19, 2006 6:14 PM
Subject: Please pass onto chapter president , chapter membership and others you feel should see this.

Today Saturday August 19th 2006 I was working the Susie Q Cancer ride as a volunteer at the arena here in Angus. It just so happened that this year the towns local Historic celebration "Pine River Days" also took place at the same location and time. I wanted to take a moment and pass on some things I saw and heard as I feel they effect CAVUNP and the Central Ontario Chapter.

During the opening ceremonies one of the local events that was commented on by our MP Jim Wilson was his recognition of the town of Angus and commitment to "Peacekeepers Day" over the past three years. He outlined the events and ideas of the day very well to the citizens that had gathered to celebrate Angus. I thought this was a bit unusual but shrugged it off.

I was marshaling motorcycles in place for the ride yet most of the morning council members, reporters and some people that I know made it a point to stop and visit with me. They spoke excitedly of the accomplishments so far and were interested in what would come to pass in the future. I would have to say once again I found this a bit odd however this years parade and dedication of the park were big events here in town.

I had a few minutes to kill before I was to set out and block of an intersection for the safety of all the ladies in the ride as they left the arena so I wandered around inside the gym. There were local artists, church groups and crafts people with displays. There were also a number of historical displays that related to Angus and the area. This is where I found a real surprise and the answer as to the interest and talk of "Peacekeepers Day" in Angus. Right on the stage dead center was a long display about Military heritage here in the area. In the center panel was a large colour photograph of Mr. Comeau Saluting on parade. Framing this picture were articles about Fern Tailifer and Gerry Tremblay as well as more on Mr. Comeau. There was a great deal of information about the town of Angus connection to "Peacekeepers". This was more than just an informational display. The gentleman that put it together put a great deal of thought and effort into it. I regret that I did not photograph the display as I was very short on time when I found it.

Gentlemen I would like to inform you that you have all made a very solid connection to the people here in Angus. They are proud of the work you have done in the past as well as all the efforts right up till the present. Angus has without a doubt adopted and claimed all of you and the members of the Central Ontario Chapter as their own! You are their peacekeepers and they are so proud of you all. You should be honored.

Well done.....

Doug B.

New Veterans Charter

      On April 1, 2006, the Government of Canada brought into force the New Veterans Charter to better meet the needs of modern-day Canadian Forces (CF) members, Veterans and their families as they transition from military to civilian life. It is the most profound change to Veterans' benefits in more than half a century.

      Monthly disability pensions already in pay at implementation will not be affected or altered by the new system.

      Please see the VAC page on the New Veterans Charter for details.

Meritorious Service Medal
(Civil Division)

Brian Lynthor Isfeld, M.S.M., C.D., Courtenay, British Columbia
Carol Margaret Isfeld, M.S.M., Courtenay, British Columbia

     In 1994, Brian and Carol Isfeld’s son, MCpl Mark Isfeld, was killed in Croatia while carrying out UN peacekeeping duties. Before her son’s death, Mrs. Isfeld would knit woollen dolls for her son to distribute to destitute children and those living with HIV/AIDS in the former Yugoslavia.

     To honour their son’s memory, the Isfelds continue to this day to craft, ship and promote the delivery of the nicknamed ‘Izzy’ dolls to Canadian soldiers. They, in turn, give them to orphaned and vulnerable children in war-torn regions around the world.

     Through their generosity and compassion, Mr. and Mrs. Isfeld have kept this tradition alive while alleviating the suffering of children.