On March 13, 2025, community members from across Prince Edward Island gathered at Government House for a special event—the King Charles III Coronation Medal Ceremony. This prestigious medal recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to their communities through public service, leadership, and volunteerism.
It was an honour to present these medals alongside His Honour, The Honourable Wassim Salamoun, Lieutenant Governor of PEI, in recognition of the remarkable individuals who have gone above and beyond in making our province a better place. From mentors and educators to advocates and community builders, each recipient has demonstrated exceptional dedication to the people of PEI.
A heartfelt thank you to His Honour and Ms. Marie Salamoun-Dunne for hosting the ceremony at Government House, and to all of the friends, family, and community members who attended to celebrate this special occasion.
Below are the citations for each medal recipient, highlighting their incredible achievements and contributions:
Mike Egan
Chief Warrant Officer Egan provided outstanding leadership and support to the Canadian Rangers as well as advocating for the Junior Ranger program. Starting as a private in 1986, Egan’s hard work and diligence allowed him to rise through the ranks. Known for his high standards, discipline, and mentorship he is a highly respected advocate for this unique Canadian population, highlighting their accomplishments in multiple different ways. His dedication to both his civilian and military roles is a testament to his integrity, leadership, and deep-rooted sense of duty.
Allan Trainor
Lieutenant Colonel Allan Trainor is a distinguished veteran, leader, and mentor whose service has left a lasting impact both at home and abroad. A veteran of the Battle of the Medak Pocket and the Swiss Air Disaster, he has demonstrated exceptional courage and dedication throughout his military career. Beginning his service with the PEI Regiment in 1981 as a Private, he steadily rose through the ranks to become Lieutenant Colonel and the unit’s 28th Commanding Officer. Beyond his military achievements, he has been a steadfast advocate for veterans, offering guidance, mentorship, and support to those facing both visible and invisible wounds, ensuring that no soldier is left behind.
Paul Charles
Sergeant Paul Charles achieved elite status in the Canadian Armed Forces, serving with distinction as a Special Forces medic. His expertise, dedication, and leadership have been invaluable both in service and in his continued commitment to his community. Drawing from his experiences, he has become a dedicated mentor, volunteering his time to guide and inspire youth in sports, helping them reach their full potential through discipline, perseverance, and teamwork. His impact extends far beyond the military, shaping the next generation with the same excellence and dedication that defined his service.
Ben Miller
Warrant Officer Ben Miller is a dedicated leader, mentor, and veteran of the Afghanistan War, whose service exemplifies courage and commitment. Drawing from his experiences on deployment, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of Island reservists. Through guidance and mentorship, he helps young soldiers develop mental resilience, discipline, and leadership skills within the profession of arms. His unwavering dedication ensures that those who follow in his footsteps are prepared, supported, and empowered to serve with strength and confidence.
Denny Hoping
Colonel Denny Hopping (Ret.) dedicated 37 years to the Canadian Armed Forces, serving with distinction in multiple leadership roles. Beginning his military career in 1958, he rose through the ranks to become Commanding Officer of the P.E.I. Regiment. Even after retiring, he continued to serve as Honorary Colonel of the P.E.I. Regiment, where he preserved regimental traditions, advised commanding officers, and strengthened ties between the unit and the community. His lasting impact can be seen in the many officers and non-commissioned members he mentored, many of whom have reached the highest echelons of command in the Canadian Armed Forces.
Aaron Sibley
Dr. Aaron Sibley is a trailblazing academic emergency physician whose leadership and innovation have significantly advanced medical research and education in Prince Edward Island's pre-hospital care system. As a respected leader, he played a pivotal role as Acting Chief of the Provincial Referral Centre Emergency Department during the COVID-19 response, ensuring high-quality care during an unprecedented crisis. His cutting-edge research has been presented at both national and international conferences, bringing prestige and recognition to Island medicine. Through his dedication to advancing emergency care and medical education, Dr. Sibley continues to shape the future of healthcare on PEI and beyond.
Rebecca Doiron
Rebecca Doiron has dedicated over 35 years to excellence in nursing, leadership, and education within Prince Edward Island’s healthcare system. A highly respected nurse educator and mentor, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of nurses through her advocacy, guidance, and unwavering commitment to professional development. Her natural leadership has earned the admiration of colleagues, students, and healthcare organizations alike, making a lasting impact on patient care and nursing education.
Benjamin Spears
Dr. Benjamin Spears dedicated 51 years to psychiatry in Prince Edward Island, shaping the province’s mental health care with his expertise, compassion, and innovation. Trained at St. Thomas’s Hospital in London, he advanced his practice through psychoanalysis and a broad range of treatments, ensuring a comprehensive approach to patient care. A respected leader, he contributed to the Atlantic Provinces Psychiatric Association and was elected a Fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatrists. Even after decades of service, his passion for helping patients never wavered, leaving a lasting impact on mental health care in PEI.
Steve Wynne
Steve Wynne enlisted in the Prince Edward Island Regiment in May 1988 as an officer cadet and rose through the ranks to become its Commanding Officer. In addition to his military career, Steve serves as the vice-principal of Charlottetown Rural High School. He is an outstanding school system administrator who volunteers in a variety of different ways ensuring a high level of educational experiences for students at Prince Edward Island’s largest high school. He has been heavily involved in supporting students who have had multiple challenges providing guidance and mentorship encouraging them to achieve their highest potential.
Liz Corney - co-founder and Executive Director, Blooming House
Brynn Devine - co-founder and Director of Development, Blooming House
Liz Corney and Brynn Devine, co-founders of Blooming House Women’s Shelter Inc., have been instrumental in addressing women’s homelessness on Prince Edward Island. Recognizing a critical gap in support services, they took action to establish PEI’s first overnight women’s shelter, providing a safe, low-barrier, harm reduction space for women and individuals identifying as female.
Operating as a 16-hour overnight shelter, Blooming House is committed to a person-centered approach, ensuring that every guest receives dignity, care, and compassionate support. Through their leadership, Liz and Brynn have created a vital resource for the community, offering a lifeline to vulnerable women and working to build a future where every woman has access to safe shelter and support.
Judith Bayliss
Judith Bayliss is a lifelong volunteer, advocate, and trailblazer whose dedication to social justice and community empowerment has left a lasting impact on Prince Edward Island and beyond. Since arriving in PEI in 1978, she has been at the forefront of women’s rights and disability advocacy, working to create meaningful change in the lives of others. A co-founder of Women’s Network and Transition House (now Family Violence Prevention Services), Judith has played a key role in advancing support systems for women and families in crisis. She was also a founding member of the Gateway Housing Co-operative and a volunteer with CUSO International, including a multi-year posting with Women’s Media Watch in Jamaica. Beyond her work in women’s advocacy, she has been a tireless champion for people with disabilities, serving as a case officer for the PEI Council for People with Disabilities (now ResourceAbilities), working with Citizens Advocacy, and supporting individuals through the PEI Ostomy Support Group.
David Rashed
David Rashed is a renowned musician, producer, and champion of local artists, whose passion for music began at just five years old. Throughout his career, he has been a driving force in the Canadian music scene, most notably as a founding member of HAYWIRE, the multi-award-winning rock band that first took off in 1981 and continues to perform today. After returning to Prince Edward Island from Ontario, David pursued his dream of operating his own recording studio, allowing him to balance his career and family life while supporting emerging talent. Since 1992, he has been a dedicated music producer, operating David Rashed Productions out of The Studio at The Guild, where he continues to mentor, record, and uplift musicians and local artists. His commitment to fostering musical talent has made a lasting impact on PEI’s arts and culture community.
Sister Sue Kidd
Sister Sue has been a pillar of support and guidance at the University of Prince Edward Island since 2010, serving as Campus Minister at the Chaplaincy Centre. With a background in youth ministry and spiritual direction, she brings compassion, leadership, and a deep commitment to student well-being in her daily work. As the driving force behind the Campus Food Bank, she ensures that UPEI students facing food insecurity have access to essential support. Through food drives, cook days, and community meals, she has fostered a welcoming, student-led volunteer network, creating a space where nourishment and kindness go hand in hand. Her dedication continues to uplift and strengthen the campus community.
Mark Carr-Rollitt
Mark Carr-Rollitt has dedicated his life to building community, fostering inclusivity, and supporting local initiatives. As the creator of the Diversity Festival, he has championed cultural celebration and unity, making Charlottetown a more welcoming place for all. His work with the Downtown Farmers' Market has strengthened connections between local farmers, artisans, and the community. A lifelong volunteer and community builder, Mark’s impact can be felt across countless initiatives that enrich the lives of those around him.
Tom Wilkinson
Tom Wilkinson has devoted his life to education, service, and community leadership. As a retired educator, for over three decades he shaped the lives of countless students, fostering a love of learning and mentorship. He was also a charter member and the first president of what has become one of eastern Canada’s largest Rotary clubs – the Rotary Club of Charlottetown Royalty. A dedicated citizen, Tom’s contributions continue to make a lasting impact on Charlottetown and beyond – exemplifying the Rotary spirit of service above self.
MP Heath MacDonald Recipients
Mr. Ronald Rayner
Ron Rayner has served his community well for well over 50 years since he first accepted the position of Mayor for the Community of Central Bedeque back in 1972. Ron was also elected as the first Mayor for the Rural Municipality of Bedeque and Area when it was first incorporated in 2014 and served in that position until 2020.
Ron has always been a strong advocate in getting things done in his community over his many years of public and community service. Once Ron takes on a project there is no stopping his determination to see the project through to the end. On various occasions individuals witnessed Ron having a keen knack for always knowing what government projects are available even before they are being introduced. Ron will always research numerous projects very thoroughly and make sure all the details are in order before proceeding. As Ron often States: " We need to get all our Ducks in a Row".
Mrs. Joyce Blackett
Joyce Blackett is a dedicated community leader and lifelong volunteer whose contributions have enriched Milton and beyond. A longtime board member and current vice president of the Milton Community Hall, she has played a vital role in fostering community engagement and local events. Known for her culinary talents, Joyce has prepared thousands of biscuits and rolls, making her the go-to expert for gravy and stuffing at community gatherings.
Her commitment to service extends through her active involvement in the Women's Institute, where she has held multiple leadership roles, as an organizer for the local TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) group, and she is also deeply engaged in the Community Baptist Church, recently taking on responsibility for the church kitchen. Her dedication, leadership, and generosity continue to make a lasting impact on those around her.
Chief Landon Yuill, C.D
Chief Landon Yuill, C.D. is a dedicated leader, veteran, and public servant who has served the community of Kensington with distinction for the past four years. Before joining the Kensington Police Service, he spent over 12 years in the Canadian Armed Forces, where he honed his skills in leadership, crisis management, and public safety.
Chief Yuill is known for his exemplary integrity, tireless work ethic, and commitment to community engagement. His impact extends beyond law enforcement, as he actively fosters mentorship, professional development, and innovative problem-solving within his team. Through his outstanding leadership, he continues to strengthen public safety and build a safer, more connected community in Kensington.
Mr. Alan Crane
Alan Crane is a dedicated advocate for veterans and remembrance, ensuring that the next generation understands the importance of honoring those who served. Each year, he visits nine schools in the Cornwall area, engaging teachers and students in the Poppy and Literary Contest, an initiative that has led to 12 national winners in the past eight years.
His unwavering commitment to Legion values and veterans is evident in everything he does, from educational outreach to community engagement. A respected leader, Alan has once again taken on the role of Branch President, continuing his tireless efforts to preserve and promote the legacy of service and sacrifice.
