HANOVER – St. John Ambulance Grey Bruce Huron Branch honoured two key members of the local organization during the meeting of the board of directors on Monday, Sept. 20 – Tony Alberts of Port Elgin, and Kathy Murphy Ermel of Hanover.
Tony Alberts, CStJ (Commander, Order of St. John), was presented with the St. John Medallion. The award recognizes dedicated volunteer service over a significant length of time or under extraordinary circumstances which deserves recognition. Alberts covers both elements – lengthy and dedicated service, and under extraordinary circumstances.
Alberts has served in several leadership functions during his 22 years of service to St. John, including at the provincial level. As branch chair, Alberts has used his profound understanding of the organization to steer it through one of the greatest challenges it has faced – the COVID-19 pandemic. The medallion recognizes and celebrates the great work he has done in the name of St. John.
Kathy Murphy Ermel, (Member, Order of St. John), was presented with the St. John Medallion to recognize distinguished service by a St. John employee for rare and exceptionally high standards.
Murphy Ermel has been a member of the Grey Bruce Huron Branch for over 25 years, 20 of which have been as branch manager. Thanks in a large part to her efforts, the new Hanover training centre and the renovated Owen Sound location have become the provincial gold standard for new builds and renovations.
She has provided her expertise to other branches, and has partnered with them to apply for grants and promote the organization. The branch has flourished even during the COVID-19 pandemic, due to her ability to meet challenges and problem-solve. Her dedication and ability warrant a high form of recognition – the St. John Medallion.
