Vernon Search and Rescue volunteers James Viel (left) and Peter Wise (right) (photo courtesy of V-SAR / Facebook)

By Liam Verster

Premier’s Recipients

Vernon Search and Rescue volunteer honoured with Coronation medal

Aug 29, 2024 | 6:15 PM

A local man committed to helping people in dire circumstances has been honoured with a prestigious award.

Peter Wise, a longtime member of the Vernon Search and Rescue Society (V-SAR), was named one of the Premier’s Recipients of the King Charles III Coronation Medal.

“The Coronation Medal commemorates the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III as King of Canada,” V-SAR said in a Facebook post on August 17.

“Medal recipients have made a significant contribution to Canada or to a particular province, territory, region or community of Canada, or have made an outstanding achievement abroad that brings credit to Canada.

V-SAR’s social media post also said James Viel, another longtime member of the group, earned the award, though his name was not included in the list from the premier’s office.

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Wise was one of 64 recipients of the award, with another three medals presented to Okanagan residents.

Kory Wood of Kelowna was honoured for starting a clean-energy Indigenous owned business and advancing Indigenous self-determination and reconciliation.

Spring Hawes, also of Kelowna, earned the award for raising awareness for people living with disabilities and working to dismantle ableism in her community.

Penticton’s Grand Chief Stewart Phillip also was presented a medal for his decades of leadership and a lifetime of work towards forwarding Indigenous rights and title.

“I extend my sincere congratulations to the recipients of The King Charles III Coronation Medal,” Premier David Eby, said.

“This distinguished honour recognizes your dedication, unwavering commitment and the profound impact you have made on your communities and our province. It is a testament to the respect and admiration you have earned.”