William E. Roche, Branch, Newfoundland and Labrador
Governor General's Caring Canadian Award
For over 30 years, William Roche has contributed to the growth of the remote community of Branch. He oversaw the planning and construction of the first library in the Placentia Bay area, which opened in 1971, and also assisted in procuring playground facilities and a recreational centre for youth. To honour the many young men from the region who fought in past wars, he initiated a plan and formed a fundraising committee to erect a war memorial, which was inaugurated in 1980. Answering a call to duty, he volunteered as an auxiliary constable with the RCMP and also assisted in the formation of the first volunteer fire brigade in Branch, eventually serving as its chief for 15 years.