The Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers recognizes individuals who, through acts of volunteerism, have enriched the life of their communities and, by extension, Canada. Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced its creation on 16 July 2015. The Governor General presents honours and awards in the name of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on behalf of all Canadians to recognize those people who have demonstrated excellence, courage or exceptional dedication to service in ways that bring special credit to this country.
Each year, hundreds of Canadians earn our applause and gratitude, from community volunteers, astronauts and actors to members of the military, scholars and everyday citizens. The Canadian Honours System gives them the opportunity to join an order or to be granted a decoration or medal in recognition of their tremendous contribution to our society.
“Service to others is a core value of what it means to be Canadian. On September 9, 2015, we will celebrate Her Majesty’s service to our country as our longest reigning Sovereign in the modern era of Canada. Through their actions, recipients of the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers exemplify Her Majesty’s own extraordinary record of service to Canada and all Canadians for over 63 years.” – Prime Minister Stephen Harper
Many members of the Canadian Military Engineer family have received recognition for their untiring dedication to causes in their communities. The CMEA, through the efforts of John MacPherson, has been able to compile the following list of CME recipients of the award. We will add to the list as we learn of more awards.
Mr.Brian Cleaver
We are awaiting details of Mr.Cleaver's award.
See: Chilliwack’s Retired Sapper Brian Cleaver Awarded Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers
Mr. Clifford Downey
Awarded on: July 18, 2019, Chilliwack, British Columbia
"For more than half a decade, Clifford Downey served as a director of the Canadian Forces Base Chilliwack Historical Society and as president of the Retired Sappers Association, which brings together former members of the Corps of Royal Canadian Engineers. He also helps fellow veterans and their families access government benefits and offers support during times of bereavement."
Mrs Shirley O’Connell
Awarded on: 25 April 2019, Ottawa, Ontario
"In 2005, “Izzy Doll Mama” Shirley O'Connell took up the reins of this project that, in conjunction with related groups, has delivered more than 1.5 million knitted Izzy Dolls to children living in inhospitable conditions. She promotes the program, leads youth workshops, recruits knitters and coordinated the distribution of dolls with partner organizations, making a difference one doll at a time."
Mrs O'Connell received her award from Major-General J.S. Sirois, OMM, CD and the Colonel Commandant, Brigadier-General S.M. Irwin, CD (Ret'd).
See: Presentation of “Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers” to Mrs Shirley O’Connell
Mr. Douglas Harrison
Awarded on: September 28, 2017, Chilliwack, British Columbia
"Dividing his time among several organizations, notably the Kiwanis Club and the local branch of the Royal Canadian Legion, Douglas Harrison has demonstrated a relentless dedication to service over the past 30 years."
Mr. John Helie
Awarded on: December 4, 2017, Chilliwack, British Columbia
"A retired sapper, John Helie has served in various roles at his local branch of the Royal Canadian Legion for 30 years. He is well regarded for his dedication and enthusiasm."
Mr. Joseph Wayne Marshall
Awarded on: September 28, 2017, Chilliwack, British Columbia
"For the past 15 years, Wayne Marshall has devoted his time to assisting seniors and veterans through his service with the local branch of the Royal Canadian Legion and as a driver and food bank volunteer with the Salvation Army."
Mr. John Meharrie
Awarded on: April 17, 2018, Chilliwack, British Columbia
"John Meharrie has been a member and part of the executive of the Royal Canadian Legion in British Columbia for more than 25 years. He has also been a member of the Royal Canadian Engineers Retired Sapper Association of Chilliwack for more than 20 years, and currently serves as its president."
Mr. Thomas Walton
Awarded on: April 17, 2018, Chilliwack, British Columbia
"Tom Walton has been a loyal member of the Royal Canadian Legion for over 50 years, notably with the Vedder Golden Branch 280 for more than 35 years. He has volunteered with the annual Remembrance Day ceremonies and is an active fundraiser with the Poppy Campaign."