Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today to recognize a select group of individuals in my riding of Simcoe—Grey, individuals who have demonstrated a true commitment to service and volunteerism, recipients of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal.
This commemorative medal is a tangible way for Canada to honour Her Majesty's 60 years of service to this country and, at the same time, it serves to honour significant contributions and achievements by Canadians.
Commander Terry Goddard from Tottenham, a World War Il veteran, who served for 27 years as an aviator in the Royal Navy, participated in the historic “swordfish attack” on the German battleship Bismarck.
Leonard Gibson, a local business leader, runs Gibson Transport in Alliston and has donated countless hours volunteering and providing needed funds throughout the New Tecumseth area.
Sandra Bednarek, a woman who epitomizes the true spirit of community volunteerism, is a prominent figure in the New Lowell's community, volunteering at local libraries, schools and churches.
Those individuals are a true testament to the service and dedication that is represented by Her Majesty. They have given so much to their communities and country and, in the form of this commemorative medal, we are giving back to them.
I thank them and congratulate them for their great service.