VICTORIA— Maurine Karagianis, New Democrat MLA for Esquimalt-Royal Roads, re-introduced a bill today that would create a provincial honour for British Columbians who have served in our country’s military.

“This bill would create the Military Service Pin that would recognize British Columbian men and women who have served in wartime, dangerous peacekeeping missions and vital domestic operations abroad and here in our own nation or province,” said Karagianis.

British Columbians who are current or retired members of the regular or reserved armed forces would receive a certificate signed by the Lieutenant Governor, as well as a pin intended to be worn on civilian clothing.

Veterans visited the legislature today to show their support for the bill.

“This Military Service Pin symbolizes the gratitude of the Crown and the people of British Columbia for those who have served with honour and valour,” said Karagianis.

This honour was first introduced in Saskatchewan and has since been supported in Ontario as well. This will be the second time Karagianis has introduced the Honouring Our Military Act.

“I sincerely hope that the government joins me in supporting the bill this time. I hope as MLAs we can all work together to continue the tradition of honouring our service men and women across the province and abroad.”