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Decorations for Bravery

Citations – Mixed Honours – June 25, 2026

Order of Canada

Officers

Pamela Geraldine Appelt, O.C.
Oakville, Ontario

Pamela Appelt is an esteemed community leader. The first Black Canadian woman appointed to the Court of Canadian Citizenship, she is dedicated to uplifting Black communities, particularly through her contributions to education initiatives and her mentorship of young leaders. For decades, she has supported initiatives and organizations focused on arts and culture, and on children and families in the Greater Toronto Area and the Jamaican diaspora.

 

Speech on the occasion of the Decorations for Bravery ceremony – 50th anniversary

In 1972, Her Majesty The Queen granted Royal approval for the creation of three new insignia: the Cross of Valour, the Star of Courage and the Medal of Bravery. She personally presented some of the first medals in this very Ballroom in 1973, as well as many other honours here in Canada over the years. Time and again, she honoured selfless acts, service and compassion, which were also hallmarks of Her Majesty’s life.

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