.png)
Candidates were selected from two specific criteria:
1. Projected Values - Persons whose behavior exhibits the spirit of the Royal Canadian Air Force, which is captured within the Canadian Armed Forces Ethos. Specifically, values demonstrated should be in the realms of Loyalty, Integrity, Courage, Excellence, Inclusion, or Accountability.
2. Action - Persons who are worthy of recognition for the positive impact they have generated within their community.
Moose Jaw citizens who received a RCAF Centennial Coin:
At just 22, Alexis Epp transformed her personal struggles with mental illness into a powerful initiative to help young people. She co-created "Mental Wellness 30," a groundbreaking course for high school and university students in Saskatchewan, designed to equip them with tools to manage anxiety and depression. Launched by the Sun West Distance Learning Centre, the course emphasizes prevention and self-care, fostering a supportive environment for students. Epp's dedication to improving mental health education ensures that no young person feels alone in their struggles, making a lasting impact on her community.
Donna Fritzke is the fundraising coordinator for the Moose Jaw Humane Society, and she has enhanced the shelter’s care for abandoned pets through innovative fundraising. Her bookstore initiatives, including a partnership with Temple Gardens Mineral Spa, have raised nearly $2,000 monthly, totaling $26,000 in 2023. With community support and volunteer dedication, her efforts address book excess and strengthen community backing for the shelter's mission.
John Thomson is a dedicated volunteer at the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank, who demonstrated exceptional leadership during a crisis caused by a water leak. He launched a successful six-day Go Fund Me campaign, raising nearly $24,000 to cover repair costs and enabling the food bank to reopen quickly. Supported by local businesses and a compassionate community, Thomson’s initiative highlighted the resilience and solidarity of Moose Jaw, showcasing the powerful impact of community action in times of need.
LJ Tyson, a Cree/Metis folk-pop artist, has turned his personal journey as a queer Indigenous person into a source of inspiration through his music. His heartfelt song, "Home on a Rainbow," reflects the challenges he faced growing up in rural Saskatchewan and serves as a beacon of hope for others navigating similar struggles. Recognized with a special distinction award from the SOCAN Foundation’s TD Indigenous Songwriter Award, Tyson aims to connect diverse audiences and deliver powerful messages of acceptance and resilience. By sharing his story, he not only celebrates his identity but also fosters understanding and encourages others to embrace their true selves.
Lucille Gilliland, executive director of the Southwest Day Care and Early Learning Centre, has been pivotal in leading a critical fundraising campaign to prevent the facility's closure due to unexpected renovation costs exceeding $200,000. Under her leadership, the center has organized several fundraisers to rally community support. A respected educator, Gilliland received the Prime Minister's Award for Excellence in Early Childhood Education in 2013 for her innovative teaching methods. Since 1975, the daycare has cared for over 2,000 children, providing inclusive and safe early learning experiences, particularly for those with special needs. Her commitment to preserving this vital resource highlights the impact of dedicated leadership in challenging times.
[All photos courtesy of the Canadian Armed Forces]