Twenty Sarnia-Lambton residents have received King Charles III Coronation Medals for their community contributions in various sectors.
A ceremony was held at Germain Park on Wednesday, August 21.
“Although there are a myriad of worthy recipients in Sarnia-Lambton, for the 20 medals we were allocated, nominations were made, and a committee decided on the finalists," read a media release from Sarnia-Lambton MP Marilyn Gladu's office. "The awards cover military backgrounds, historical, scientific, and social contributions to our community."
One of the recipients was Sarnia-Lambton Chamber of Commerce CEO Carrie McEachran, who was recognized for her role in advocating for small businesses and increasing networking opportunities.
"She is also a small business owner promoting the growth and leadership skills of women," read a media release.
From the Sarnia Legion Branch 62, President Ron Realesmith and First Vice President Les Jones were awarded medals.
Realesmith was credited for increased support and membership.
"His support for the Sarnia Historical Society, as well as his fundraising efforts for vandalism at Veterans Park is just one example of the way he steps in to serve as needed," read a media release.
Jones, a veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces and a retired member of the Sarnia Police Service, was recognized for his involvement in various charitable boards in Lambton County; including Hero to Hero military support, MADD Canada, Scouts, and Athletic Associations.
Tom Slater was also acknowledged for preserving Sarnia's history by remembering fallen soldiers through the Sarnia War Remembrance Project and his book Valour Remembered, co-written with Tom St. Amand.
The other recipients are listed below.
Tania Lee - As the owner of Sarnia Duty Free and president of the Association for all Duty Frees, Lee was noted for contributions to the local economy.
Chantal Butterfield - The executive director of the Sarnia-Lambton Sexual Assault Survivors Centre was highlighted for supporting clients and leading a team of staff.
Retired Major Harold Chadwick - As a former member of the Canadian Armed Forces and current employee of the Canadian Coast Guard, Chadwick has been involved in various fundraisers to support organizations such as Wounded Warriors and the Sarnia Hockey Association.
Lt. (N) David Anderson - He has been involved in the Cadet movement as a CIG officer for 42 years and also served as a CO on five occasions for the Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps Repulse.
Lt. (N) Carol Weston - As the executive officer for the Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps #132 Repulse, Weston has served youth for over 20 years.
John DeGroot - As a business owner and member of the Rotary Club of Sarnia, Degroot has hosted several charitable events and sat on various local boards.
Janice McMichael-Dennis - As the president and CEO of Bluewater Power, McMichael-Dennis was credited for growing the business, supporting charitable causes, and sitting on local boards; including the Research Park and the Chamber of Commerce.
Judy Morris - The former president and CEO of Lambton College pioneered programs, expanded the school to three locations, and supported immigration to Sarnia.
Geoff Dale - The business owner was recognized for his work with charitable organizations and community functions, including Captain Kidd Days.
Rich Bouchard - The founder of Hashtag Charitable Foundation and co-founder of Race to Erase has helped raise money for various charitable and non-profit organizations.
Robert White - As a veteran of the Royal Canadian Navy and the United States Navy, White has been a member of the Royal Canadian Legion for over 55 years.
Petty Officer First Class Murray Quinton - He served in the Canadian Armed Forces and the Royal Canadian Navy for 42 years. The life-long marathon runner has helped raise money for different initiatives.
Philip Eagen - As the editor-in-chief and director of the Sarnia Historical Society, Egan has helped raise awareness of the city's history.
Tanya Tamilio - The chair at Le Centre Communautaire Francophone de Sarnia-Lambton played a major role in obtaining the Francophone designation of Ontario for the area.
Sandy Marshall - The successful engineer helped establish the Bio Innovation Center, which attracted facilities to the area.
Ken McAlpine - The cycling enthusiast helped launch the Bluewater International Granfondo, which has raised over $300,000 for palliative care.