Ontario launches first-in-Canada award to honour veterans making a difference at home

Ontario branches of The Royal Canadian Legion will nominate one deserving veteran each year.

The Ontario government has launched a new award to honour veterans who continue to serve their communities after military life. The Ontario Veterans Award for Community Service Excellence is the first of its kind in Canada.

The award recognizes veterans who help others transition to civilian life, support those with physical or mental injuries, or contribute to broader community-building efforts.

Premier Doug Ford’s government says the award highlights the lasting impact veterans have in their communities. Ontario branches of The Royal Canadian Legion will nominate one deserving veteran each year. Award recipients will receive a certificate and a lapel pin in a local ceremony.

The program was announced in Centre Hastings by Citizenship and Multiculturalism Minister Graham McGregor and local MPP Ric Bresee.

“Veterans across this province and here in Hastings – Lennox and Addington have served our country with courage, and continue to serve our communities with dedication and heart,” said Bresee. “This award is our government’s way of honouring their extraordinary volunteerism and ensuring their legacy inspires a stronger, more united Ontario.”

Ontario is home to about 149,000 veterans, and around 9,000 Canadian Armed Forces members retire from service each year across the country.