On 7 August 2026, the Canadian Military Engineer Colonel Commandant, Lieutenant-General Paul Wynnyk, CMM, MSM, CD presented Lieutenant-Colonel Dennis Dwyer, CD, (Ret'd) with the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers.
LCol Dwyer retired from the Canadian Forces in 1997, after completing over 35 years of exemplary, combined Regular and Primary Reserve Force Service. His military service was followed by employment by Elk Island Public Schools in Alberta. He remained with this organization until his retirement in May 2000.
In 2002 he was appointed Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel of 8 Field Engineer Regiment; a position he maintained for six years. He provided a very positive contribution to the overall morale and wellbeing of the members of that Primary Reserve in general; as well as promoting the identity and ethos of 8 Field Engineer Regiment in particular.
For over 15 years from 2000 he was successively Treasurer, Vice President, and then President of the Alberta Sappers' Club. The Sappers' Club was formed by the surviving members of the Royal Canadian Engineers who returned to Edmonton after their service in the Second World War. The aim of the club has been to remember the sacrifice of those who served their country in uniform and to support Veterans and their families. Dennis planned, organized and orchestrated a monthly lunch for the veterans and their spouses. He also planned and organized a very well received and attended, annual dinner and dance to commemorate the anniversary of the formation of the Club.
Dennis has taken his support of Veteran's very personally, including visiting them while in extended care facilities. He has continued to do this on a regularly basis for many years. His efforts included, but were not limited to assisting them in feeding and bringing them care packages, in addition to the quality time he spent just being there for them. For one Veteran and his wife, Dennis did this for several years, up to the end of their lives. For another Veteran, Dennis visited often and provided transportation to him for the many trips to specialist medical appointments he needed towards the end of his life.
Soon after the COVID 19 Pandemic commenced, the monthly luncheons were stopped in accordance with local municipal and provincial health and safety restrictions. Dennis realized that these restrictions would increase the isolation of many of the veterans, particularly those already restricted due their age and related health issues. He decided to reach out to them by video teleconference. His first call was very successful and thus began a bi-weekly Zoom meeting which is now well over its 100th occasion. Dennis has taken this on at his own initiative and expense.
Dennis has supported a multitude of veterans over the 25 years since he retired from full time work and sets a rare high standard of care and compassion for others to emulate. He is well deserving of this recognition.