The Ontario government has announced a new way to honour local heroes. The Ontario Veterans Award for Community Service Excellence was launched to recognize veterans who continue to make a big difference in their communities after their military service.
This new award is given to veterans who go above and beyond to help others. That could mean helping fellow veterans adjust to civilian life, supporting people living with mental or physical injuries, or taking part in important local projects that build stronger communities.
Ontario is the first province in Canada to create a special award like this just for veterans. Each year, local branches of The Royal Canadian Legion will choose one veteran from their area who has made an outstanding impact. These veterans will be honoured with certificates and lapel pins during local ceremonies.
Ontario is home to about 149,000 veterans, and around 9,000 members of the Canadian Armed Forces retire from military service every year. This award helps celebrate those who keep giving back to their communities in meaningful ways.