Rochefort-backed petition garners thousands of signatures

Over 16,000 people have signed a petition calling on Ottawa to establish an independent Military Honours review board to investigate awarding the Victoria Cross to Afghanistan veterans. 

It calls for the first review to involve the late Jess Larochelle, who was born in Restoule. 

He was awarded the Star of Military Valour for bravery while defending his position with a broken back against overwhelming Taliban forces in Oct. 2006. 

MP Pauline Rochefort says it’s been her honour to help shine a light on important issues such as recognition and care for Canadian Veterans and military personnel, adding they’re grateful to those who signed the petition. 

“Jess Larochelle performed with Canadian tenacity and courage in Afghanistan,” she says.  “His heroism is unquestioned. He saved lives that fateful day in 2006.” 

Rochefort adds there are dozens more whose actions approach that level of valour.   

“These fine men and women’s actions protect and uphold our way of living at home and on a world stage,” she says. “To see them appropriately recognized and cared for during and after their service is the least Canada can do.” 

The petition closed to signatures Thursday at 11:31 am.  

Having well-surpassed the 500 signatures needed, it’ll be read in the House of Commons and garner a government response.  

Richard Coffinhttps://www.mynorthbaynow.com/Richard Coffin has been a reporter and news anchor on the radio in North Bay for over 25 years.  From premiers to people in the neighbourhood, he enjoys connecting with newsmakers and writing stories that matter to area listeners on a variety of topics including healthcare, education, politics, sports and more.