October 7, 2004
St. John Ambulance Awards
MLA Statement
R. Lee: Last Sunday I had the honour to be a spectator at the annual inspection of the lower mainland divisions of St. John Ambulance brigade. I understand that the hon. member for Richmond East is also a member of this organization. Joining me at that magnificent event were the member for Vancouver-Burrard and the member for Coquitlam-Maillardville.
The Order of St. John has a long history in Canada, dating back to 1636, when the Knights of Malta became the Governor of Quebec. For hundreds of years the St. John Ambulance brigade uniformed volunteers have been working tirelessly to improve the health, safety and quality of life of Canadians.
Last year 1,823 brigade adult members, crusaders, cadets, juniors, therapy dog handlers and therapy dogs provided over 190,000 hours of volunteer services to communities in British Columbia and the Yukon.
During the ceremony at the Seaforth Armoury in Vancouver, ambulance divisions and individuals were recognized for their accomplishments. I would like to congratulate all the award winners, including the 12 recipients of the Duke of Edinburgh's awards from the Vancouver division. From Burnaby, division 389C received the Tinkler Shield as the most efficient cadet division in the lower mainland and won the Maundrell Trophy as the best overall cadet division in the province, while its member Michael Wong received the course commander's award as the top candidate on brigade officer training level 3.
Some other divisions were recognized as well. Division 426 in Richmond is the best adult division in the province, and Division 336 in Surrey contributed the most volunteer hours per member.
Time will not allow me to mention all the winners. Would the House please join me to congratulate all the award winners of the St. John Ambulance brigade and recognize the contributions of this great non-profit organization to British Columbia.
