22 October, 2022
On Friday, 21 October 2022, a presentation of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medals (Alberta) took place at The Ranchmen’s Club in Calgary.
These individuals were selected by RAUSI from Albertans who, like The Queen, have dedicated themselves to family, community, and country. They have each served as role models to the Institute and have made significant and lasting contributions in our communities. Confidential nominations were received to recognize outstanding service and were reviewed by committee to determine the top fifteen of the submissions. It was a difficult decision but, in the end, some amazing Albertans were chosen. Congratulations to all!
Photo credit: Cindy Judd
Left to Right:
Major Philip Lloyd Northcott, CD (Retired)
Citation: “Major Northcott has afforded Canada an outstanding military career in addition to his ongoing volunteerism as a chaplain and historian.”
Sergeant Nathaniel Blackmore, CD
Citation: “Sergeant Blackmore has profoundly changed The Military Museums and positively impacted the community. He sets a progressive example for many Albertans to follow.”
Major Mark Soehner, CD (Retired)
Citation: “Major Soehner has served Canadians since 1979 as a firefighter, emergency medical technician and soldier. His volunteerism has made his community a better place to live.”
Major Kenneth Ronald Sivertsen, CD (Retired)
Citation: “Major Sivertsen has provided a lifetime of service to Alberta and Canada through his leadership of many community institutions and service organizations.”
Lieutenant Commander Anna Kocot, CD
Citation: “Lieutenant Commander Kocot’s passion about culture change and volunteer spirit has positively influenced many Albertans. She is an outstanding and inspirational leader.”
Mr. Clarence Wolfleg Sr. Miiksika’am
Citation: “Clarence Wolfleg Sr. has spent many years helping others in Alberta through aboriginal leadership, spiritual guidance, and military and police service.”
Officiant. Mr. Murray McCann, AOE, MSM
Colonel Egbert-Jan van Weelderen, CD (Retired)
Citation: “Colonel van Weelderen’s passion, leadership and indefatigable public service and volunteerism have made a significant, positive and long-lasting impact to Canada.”
Major Bruce Henwood, MSM, CD (Retired)
Citation: “Major Henwood has spent a lifetime in the service of Canada. His work with disabled Canadian Armed Forces veterans has positively influenced many Albertans.”
Lieutenant-Colonel Peter Boyle, CD
Citation: “Lieutenant-Colonel Boyle has spent his adult life in the service of Canada as a soldier, educator, and volunteer. He is a true inspiration to many.”
Colonel Samuel Blakely, CD (Retired)
Citation: “Colonel Blakely has devoted his life to helping others. His leadership and social work skills have made a positive and long-lasting impact to many Canadians.”
Major Kent Griffiths, MMM, CD (Retired)
Citation: “Major Griffiths has dedicated his life to educating and enhancing the quality of life of Albertans. He has served with great distinction and of singular excellence, making significant contributions to advance Alberta’s history and place in Canada.”
Missing from Photo
Major Richard Westbury, CD (Retired)
Citation: “Major Westbury spent his adult life in the service of Albertans, young and old, with the goal of improving their opportunities and education. He is a consummate and selfless volunteer.”
Major Fiona McLean, CD, KC (Retired)
Citation: “Major McLean’s support to the community, as a leader and role model, has positively influenced many Albertans.”
Flight Officer John Melbourne, CD (Retired)
Citation: “Flight Officer Melbourne’s leadership and volunteerism with the Calgary Stampede, Royal Canadian Air Force, and in other service organizations has been inspirational and commendable.”
Ms. Karen Storwick, MSM
Citation: “Karen Storwick’s exceptional leadership and volunteerism has documented and captured our rich Alberta heritage.”