Ten more Sarnia-Lambton residents have received King Charles III Coronation Medals for their contributions to the community.
A ceremony was held at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 62 Wednesday, February 12 to recognize 10 more individuals.
This is the second ceremony to be held since 20 residents were recognized with the award in August 2024.
"King Charles Coronation medals are given to worthy individuals who have contributed significantly to our community or to our country or both," said Sarnia-Lambton MP Marilyn Gladu.
Gladu said in January the Governor General gave an additional 10 medals for other nominees.
"I'm really honoured to be here presenting these to people that have really helped our community in so many ways," she said. The medals have covered everything from science, the military, the arts, social services and health, philanthropy and all kinds of areas."
One of the recipients was Tourism Sarnia-Lambton's Vicky Praill.
She was recognized for her work with the organization and has brought events such as Tall Ships, the Mike Weir Golf Tournament and Silver Stick to the community.
"This award is not just for me, it's for all of the people I've worked with over the years, including the thousands of volunteers that have helped with countless events and they've obviously made a difference in our community," Praill said.
She said when she received the call she received the award she felt emotional and touched.
Another recipient is Shauna Carr.
She is recognized for her role in expanding Ontario's Hydrogen Hub, the hybrid chemistry cluster and the petrochemical and refining economy in the community.
Carr said it is overwhelming.
"This is my hometown. I wouldn't do anything different. My whole career has been to move this community forward because I think it's awesome and I think everybody here is awesome but to be recognized this way is not something I expected and certainly not why I do what I do," she said.
Michelle Holbrook was also acknowledged for her work in leading Rebound.
She said she is still in shock from the initial call.
"I've always been someone who truly believes in Sarnia and was born and raised here, so to be honoured in our community is pretty special," Holbrook said.
The other recipients are listed below.
Valerie Colasanti- The General Manager for Lambton County is being recognized for her work dedicated to addressing homelessness, poverty and workforce development.
Myles Vanni- As the Executive Director for the Inn of the Good Shepherd, he was recognized for his lifetime of service, including his work with Scouts and youth programs.
Julie Craddock- She is the first female Indigenous Deputy Chief and brings over 30 years to the Anishinabek Police Service. Craddock is being recognized for her advocacy for equity, diversity and inclusion. She has led transformative initiatives supporting victims, youth engagement and community-driven policing.
Kevin Marriott- He is being recognized for his 30 years on Enniskillen Township Council and is the longest- serving Warden of Lambton.
Heather Martin- She has been a dedicated advocate for seniors and affordable housing for 36 years. Martin has led to the expansion of Vision Nursing Home, the opening of Wellington Flats affordable housing and her Five Projects in Five Years.
Michael John Kooy- As an Investment Advisor and Portfolio Manager with RBC, Kooy was recognized for his strong presence in the community. He served for many years on the Sarnia-Lambton Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and is an active member of the Rotary Club of Sarnia.
Brian Mundt- As a project manager he has inspired the Five Projects in Five Years which looks to address the lack of affordable housing in the community.
