Opening of the Exhibit "From Far and Wide - Honouring Great Canadians"

The ribbon cutting marked the official opening of the exhibit.

On May 17, 2012, the Governor General officially opened the exhibit From Far and Wide - Honouring Great Canadians, located in downtown Ottawa across from Parliament Hill (90 Wellington Street).

On this occasion, His Excellency met with a few honours recipients that are featured in the exhibit. Seen here is Lawrence Euteneier, M.S.M. In 2002, Mr. Euteneier created “Web-4-All”, a world-leading technology for those with disabilities and literacy impairments. The application provides people with visual disabilities, dexterity issues and literacy challenges web accessibility through sight, sound and touch. For his innovative contribution to improving the lives of so many Canadians, Lawrence Euteneier received the Meritorious Service Medal (civil division) in 2006.

The exhibit also includes the work of the Canadian Heraldic Authority in creating coats of arms and other national emblems. Highlights include the Royal Banner of King George VI, flown at Rideau Hall during the Royal visit of 1939.

Also featured in the exhibit are Sergeant Jeremy Leblanc, M.M.V. (left) and Captain Simon Mailloux (right). On October 14, 2006, in Afghanistan, Sergeant Leblanc assumed command when a devastating attack resulted in several casualties, including the death of his section commander. Despite being injured and under constant fire, he tended to the wounded and inspired his section to keep fighting against a determined enemy. For his courageous act of valour, Sergent Leblanc was awarded the Medal of Military Valour. Captain Mailloux lost his leg to an explosive device in Afghanistan and was awarded the Sacrifice Medal. Despite this experience, he overcame many obstacles and returned to the combat mission in Afghanistan in 2010. He was awarded the Diamond Jubilee Medal in February 2012 for his leadership with soldiers injured during the war.

Featuring interpretative panels and multimedia elements, the exhibit provides an opportunity for visitors of all ages to learn more about Canada’s national honours and some of their recipients.

He also had a chance to chance to chat with Tamsen Lahnalampi, M.B. During a March break trip to Costa Rica, Tamsen risked her life to rescue two teenagers from drowning. Alerted to the danger, and despite the strong riptide and deep waters, she dove in and persevered through rough waters, leading them safely back to shore. For her courage and determination to save lives, Tamsen received the Medal of Bravery in 2011.

"Welcome everyone to this unique space," said His Excellency. "Here, we will learn how Canada honours our very best, those who have made an impact on our smart and caring nation. Here, we will see the stories of those people who changed society, or who changed just one life. Here, we will learn how national honours have instilled Canadians with pride and how they have helped to build our national identity. Here we will discover a distinctive part of our history."

Open daily until November 2012, this public exhibit celebrates Canada's national honours and the extraordinary contributions of Canadians from across the country and from all walks of life. Guides will be on site to interpret the exhibit’s content.

A Sault Ste. Marie area school choir happened to be on site when the Governor General arrived. They gladly gave an impromptu performance for His Excellency.

His Excellency also met with Emma Dubé. Recipient of the 2011 Governor General’s Academic Medal (Bronze) at Highland Secondary School in Comox, British Columbia, Emma is described as a “humanitarian of high calibre” who, not only strives for top marks but is also a committed volunteer, tutor, army cadet, instructor and leader. Today, Emma is a Social Sciences student at North Island College, British Columbia.