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Veterans Voices founder doubly recognized for his work

King Charles III's Coronation Medal and Meritorious Service Decoration recipient

In the past six months, Veterans Voices of Canada founder Al Cameron was recognized twice for his efforts to pay tribute to veterans and preserve military history. 

Cameron received a King Charles III's Coronation Medal on Wednesday, presented by Innisfail-Sylvan Lake MLA Devin Dreeshen.

In July 2024, Cameron also found out that he was a recipient of a Meritorious Service Decoration (Civil Division) for exceptional deeds accomplished over a limited period of time that bring honour to Canada. Cameron will receive his medal at a ceremony in Ottawa in the coming months.

For two decades, Cameron travelled across the country documenting veterans' stories, conducting more than 2,000 interviews to protect their stories. 

Since 2014, Veterans Voices has hosted the annual Flags of Remembrance tribute near Sylvan Lake. Flags line one km of Highway 11 to represent the 128,000 Canadian military members and RCMP officers and missing-in-action service personnel lost in service since the Boer War.

The History Interest, Learning and Support Centre, a micro museum at Parkland Mall, has also been open since June 2023.

"You do your work. You do what you think is important, and you're not looking for recognition. But at the same time, it's a humbling honour," said Cameron, about the medals, adding volunteers have helped him with his projects over the years.

But while he appreciated the medals, Cameron said the sacrifices made by veterans, represented by military medals preserved in the museum, are significantly more important.

He said it is good to know that people understand what Veterans Voices is all about, and the thanks he receives regularly at the museum from veterans, veterans families and the public is gratifying. 

"It feels good every time someone says thank you, especially when veterans themselves say thank you. It means a lot," Cameron said. 

He was also thankful for donations and support he has received, and to those who continue to contribute.

Cameron was the recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012, and the Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2022. 



Susan Zielinski

About the Author: Susan Zielinski

Susan has been with the Red Deer Advocate since 2001. Her reporting has focused on education, social and health issues.
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