Three dedicated members of the Lt. Col. Craig Armoury Historical Society in Vermilion were recently recognized for their exceptional contributions to the community. On March 10, Jim Storch, Bob Fisher, and Don Henry were each presented with the King Charles III Coronation Medal by MP Shannon Stubbs.
The Coronation Medal program was first announced on May 3, 2023, three days before King Charles III’s coronation. Rideau Hall later unveiled the medal’s design and program details on May 6, 2024, the same day the Governor General awarded the first medals to Lieutenant Governors and Territorial Commissioners in a virtual ceremony. Designed by Cathy Bursey-Sabourin, Fraser Herald at the Canadian Heraldic Authority, the medal commemorates King Charles III’s ascension as King of Canada.
To be eligible for the award, nominees must have made a significant contribution to Canada or their local community, or achieved something outstanding abroad that brings credit to Canada. Candidates must have been alive on May 6, 2023, though the award may be presented posthumously if the individual met the criteria on that date.
Jim Storch and Bob Fisher were both nominated by Don Henry, President of the Lt. Col. Craig Armoury Historical Society, while Henry himself was nominated by the society’s Communications Officer, Heather MacMillan. Their extensive efforts in preserving the historic armoury and contributing to the community made them deserving recipients of this prestigious honour.
Jim Storch’s passion for community service was highlighted in his nomination.
Storch has been an integral part of the Lt. Col. Craig Armoury Historical Society, serving as secretary and treasurer. His involvement with the cadets is deeply personal—he credits a cadet uniform’s heavy tunic for protecting him from serious injury in a 1985 car accident. Since then, he has dedicated himself to giving back to the cadet community.
Beyond the armoury, Storch has made a lasting impact in various organizations. He is a member of the Mannville Elks Lodge, a founding member of the Mannville Food Bank (now retired), and has been actively involved in the Mannville and Area Performing Arts Society for 18 years. His contributions extend to 4-H programs, the Royal Canadian Legion, the Vermilion Fair Heavy Horse Committee, and the Mannville Classic Cruisers.
Upon receiving the medal, Storch expressed his gratitude and surprise. “It’s a great honour to have been nominated and won. When I learned that it was for volunteering in our community, I was overwhelmed. I just go out and have some fun with friends,” he said. “Being presented with this medal is very humbling, and I look forward to continuing to serve our communities for a long time.”
Bob Fisher’s dedication and perseverance was highlighted in his nomination.
Fisher’s journey with the Lt. Col. Craig Armoury began in 2012, when Don Henry asked him to assist with repairing the ladies’ washroom. Recognizing his exceptional skill and dedication, Henry continued to enlist his help with various projects, including the installation of the hall floor and the repair of the upstairs office window.
“Over the years, Mr. Fisher has become an indispensable part of our team, always willing to lend a hand and contribute his expertises to ensure the upkeep of the armoury,” said Don Henry in his nomination letter.
Fishers expertise as a Heavy Duty Mechanic and his additional training in fire apparatus repair made him an invaluable asset to his volunteer work. Over the years, he has played a crucial role in maintaining the historic building, ensuring it remains a functional space for the community.
Growing up as an “Air Force brat,” Fisher moved frequently, which instilled in him a sense of adaptability and service. Though he never served in the military, he became a respected instructor at the Alberta Fire Training School where he excelled as an instructor and evaluator until his retirement on July 1, 2020 and continues to teach and evaluate courses today when needed. His parents’ dedication to service—his father as a lab technician and his mother as a St. John Ambulance instructor—inspired him to follow a similar path.
Fisher was deeply moved by the recognition. “I was surprised to find out I had been nominated and especially to have won. I never expected anything like this,” he said. “I just wanted to help keep the Armoury in working condition because it’s an important part of Vermilion’s history and community.”
Don Henry’s lifelong commitment to youth development was just one reason for his nomination.
Henry’s involvement with the armoury dates back to 1969 when he joined the 2645 Loyal Edmonton Regiment Cadet Corps at the age of 13. His cadet experiences took him to Arctic Indoctrination Camp in Churchill, Manitoba, and the six-week Cadet Leader course in Vernon, BC Canada, and he was qualified as a basic parachutist with the Canadian Airborn Regiment in 1974, eventually leading him to become an instructor and a Commanding Officer for the Corps - role he would hold twice.
A skilled Heavy Duty Mechanic, Henry later became an instructor at Lakeland College, where he spent 37 years shaping future professionals and wrote North America’s only textbook on Fire Apparatus Maintenance. His passion for mentorship and leadership stems from his cadet training, and his motto, Acer Acerpori—As the maple, so the sapling, reflects his dedication to nurturing the next generation.
Henry was humbled by the honour. “I nominated Jim and Bob because I wanted them to be recognized for their hard work and dedication to the community. I was surprised to learn I was also nominated,” he said. “It’s rewarding to see our efforts acknowledged, but the real reward is knowing that the Armoury remains a valuable resource for youth and community groups, as 105 youth use the Armoury each week.” He also noted that the Society is very grateful for the generous donations from the Rotary, the Lions and the Community Closet that have been given to support the renovations in the building.
The recognition of Storch, Fisher, and Henry highlights the importance of community service and historical preservation. Their dedication ensures that the Lt. Col. Craig Armoury remains not just a historic site but a thriving hub for community engagement. Their stories serve as a reminder that even the smallest acts of volunteerism contribute to a greater legacy, enriching the lives of those around them.