27 Local Leaders Awarded King Charles III Coronation Medals

In a heartfelt ceremony, 27 individuals from the Prince Albert area were awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in recognition of their significant contributions to the community. The event took place at the E.A. Rawlinson Centre, where Randy Hoback, the local Member of Parliament, presented the medals to deserving nominees. This initiative is part of a broader effort, with a total of 30,000 medals distributed nationwide to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III in 2023.

Hoback emphasized the rigorous vetting process that nominees underwent. “We put out a notice of the possibility of the diamond coronation medal being presented to constituents. People within the riding put forward names and letters of support, and then we conducted a quick vetting to ensure legitimacy,” he said. The recipients included a diverse group of individuals, from community leaders to dedicated volunteers, reflecting the spirit of giving that characterizes the area.

The medals were awarded to a variety of individuals who have made notable impacts in Prince Albert. They included lawyers, business owners, and volunteers who contribute to local sports teams and community services. Each recipient shares a common motivation: a commitment to enhancing the quality of life in their community. As Hoback noted, “It’s not just one person. They don’t seek attention or brag about their contributions. They quietly make things happen.”

The last time such a medal was presented in Canada was during Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012, marking her 60 years on the throne. While the future of similar awards remains uncertain, Hoback expressed hope that more opportunities for recognition will arise. “This is a unique event that ties into something happening in the royal family,” he said, hinting at the possibility of another medal in the future.

A Look at the Award Recipients

Among the distinguished awardees was Keith Amyotte, a lawyer recognized for his extensive contributions to legal organizations in Saskatchewan. He has served as the Vice Chair of the Conduct Investigation Committee for the Law Society of Saskatchewan and has been actively involved in local sports as a coach.

Captain Ramsay Bellisle, who has dedicated 30 years to the Canadian Armed Forces, was also honored. His deployments included missions in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Afghanistan, and he currently works as an advanced care paramedic.

Major Shelley Bellisle has served in the Primary Reserve for 35 years, contributing to wildfire fighting efforts and supporting employer recognition programs for the military. Her community involvement extends to several volunteer roles, including coaching minor softball.

Another recipient, Marj Bodnarchuk, a retired registered nurse, has been instrumental in musical outreach programs for nursing homes. Her volunteer work spans multiple organizations, including the E.A. Rawlinson Centre and the Rose Garden Hospice. Her previous accolades include being named the Prince Albert Citizen of the Year.

The list of recipients continues with Doug Chisholm, a pilot who has documented the natural beauty of northern Saskatchewan, and Sergeant Chad Christopherson, who has played a pivotal role in training junior members of the Canadian Armed Forces.

Other notable awardees include Master Warrant Officer Henri Dagenais, who has contributed to military meteorology since 1975; Sergeant Martin Donly, an RCMP pilot who has worked to improve aviation safety; and Chelsey Erickson, recognized for her leadership in establishing Wes Peterson Memorial Park in Weldon.

Additional Recognitions and Contributions

The breadth of service among the awardees showcases a commitment to various causes. James ‘Terry’ Rogers has been a fixture in Melfort, contributing to numerous community events and initiatives.

Both Dennis Koch and Margaret Koch have made significant impacts in their respective fields, advocating for better nutrition and healthcare while contributing to local charitable organizations.

Dr. Lalita Malhotra stands out for her medical contributions, having delivered more babies than any other doctor in northern Saskatchewan, and being awarded both the Order of Canada and the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal.

The ceremony celebrated not just individual achievements but the collective spirit of community service that defines Prince Albert. As Hoback concluded, “We’ve seen the dedication of these individuals, and it’s important to recognize their hard work. They truly make our community a better place.”

The King Charles III Coronation Medal ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the unsung heroes whose efforts often go unnoticed but contribute significantly to the fabric of society.