Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary Leader
Appointed to the Order of Canada
Compiled from information furnished by
Francois Vezina, Business Manager, CCGA
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| COMO Seibert Photo: Francois Vezina, CCGA |
It is now official. Mr. Harry Strong, Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary (CCGA) has been appointed to the Order of Canada.
Mr. Strong was presented with Canada's highest honor for lifetime achievement by her Excellency the Right Honorable Adrienne Clarkson, Governor General of Canada, during a ceremony held at Rideau Hall, Ottawa, Ontario, on February 20, 2004. Her Excellency is the direct representative of Queen Elizabeth II to Canada.
Rideau Hall, in Ottawa, is where every Governor General has worked and lived since Canada's birth in 1867. Where exceptional Canadians are honored. Where world leaders and visitors from around the globe are welcomed. Where people from across Canada are at home.
Mr. Strong is an honorary member of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary, an honor bestowed upon him a few years back. Mr. Strong’s title of Chief Executive Officer, CCGA, places him in a leadership position similar to that of our National Commodore. He often represents the CCGA at our national conferences and functions. His bubbling personality has befriended him to all.
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| Harry Strong receiving Order |
Attending the appointment ceremony, representing the National Commodore and the membership of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary, was Commodore Gene Seibert, NAVCO-COS. In his remarks, Commodore Seibert expressed our organization’s warm wishes and congratulations to Mr. Strong for earning this extraordinary honor.
The Order of Canada recognizes people who have made a difference to their country. From local citizens to national and international personalities, all Canadians are eligible for the Order of Canada -- the country's highest honor for lifetime achievement.
Three different levels of membership honor people whose accomplishments vary in degree and scope: Member, Officer and Companion. Since 1967, more than 4,000 people have received the Order of Canada. New appointments to the Order are made twice each year and lists are announced around New Year's Day and Canada Day. Three ceremonies are held each year.
The citation that accompanied the appointment is as follows:
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Order of Canada Harry Strong, C.M. Old Perlican, Trinity Bay, Newfoundland May 8, 2003 |
Harry Strong's voluntarism is marked by a selfless dedication to saving lives. For more than 20 years, this businessman has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to the local, national and international search and rescue communities. Having served in various leadership positions with the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary (CCGA), he is currently its chief executive officer. In this role, he is responsible for planning, training and establishing programs for boating safety and has been instrumental in earning for the CCGA an outstanding reputation as one of the best life-saving operations in Canada.
Why does the badge of the Order of Canada look like a snowflake?
Every snowflake is unique, just as is every member of the Order.
What does the motto of the Order mean?
In Latin, the motto is "Desiderantes meliorem patriam". This means "they desire a better country" -- words the members of the Order bring to life.
Are all Canadians eligible for the Order?
Yes. Canadians from coast to coast to coast and of all ages can be appointed to the Order of Canada. Federal and provincial politicians and judges may not be considered while holding office.
Can citizens of other countries be appointed to the Order of Canada?
Yes. Citizens of other countries are eligible for honorary appointments at three levels of membership: Companion, Officer and Member. They may be considered for outstanding achievement which reflects honor on Canada and/or lifetime contributions to humanity at large. The maximum number of honorary appointments per year is five.
Who decides who is appointed to the Order of Canada?
The Governor General, as Chancellor of the Order, makes the appointments based on the recommendations of an Advisory Council.
Do politicians choose members of the Order?
The Order of Canada and the nomination process are non-partisan. No politicians sit on the Advisory Council, although they can nominate someone or be a supporter or reference for a nominee.
What happens when a person becomes a member of the Order?
The Governor General invites the new members to Rideau Hall to be honored for their achievements in a formal ceremony, which is broadcast nationally. The new members receive the snowflake badge which they can wear and they can use the letters O.C., C.M. or C.C. after their name.
Can a member give away the badge?
While the badges remain the property of the Order, members can pass them down in their wills as a family heirloom. Badges can also be given to a reputable museum or returned to the Chancellery. The Order retains ownership to prevent the sale of the badge which would give it an unintended monetary value.
Can the Order be awarded to Canadians who have died?
Only living Canadians can be appointed.
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