QUEEN APPROVES HONOURS INSIGNIA

Today at a special event at Government House Heritage Property, The Queen approved the use of the Royal Crown on the insignia of three honours of the provincial Crown. Her Majesty signified approval by signing the original drawings of the insignia prepared by the Canadian Heraldic Authority.

The three insignia are:

Saskatchewan Order of Merit – A stylized western red lily, the provincial floral emblem, on which is placed the shield of arms of Saskatchewan, surmounted by the Royal Crown and surrounded by the provincial motto, Multis e gentibus vires (From Many Peoples Strength).

Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal – A circular silver medal bearing the provincial shield of arms surmounted by the Royal Crown and the words Saskatchewan and Nos Ipsos Dedimus (We Give of Ourselves).

Saskatchewan Centennial Medal – A circular bronze medal bearing a wreath of western red lilies surmounted by the Royal Crown. Below is the provincial motto, Multis e gentibus vires (From Many Peoples Strength). On the circumference are the words Saskatchewan 1905-2005. On the reverse is the shield of arms of Saskatchewan.

"The Province takes considerable pride in the Royal recognition of three of its honours of the Crown," Provincial Secretary Joan Beatty said. "By approving the use of the Royal Crown on the medals, Her Majesty is honouring our province and all the recipients of the Saskatchewan Order of Merit, Volunteer Medal and Centennial Medal."

The Prince of Wales was invested in 2001 as the first honorary member of the Saskatchewan Order of Merit. The appointment of the Earl of Wessex (Prince Edward) as an honorary member of the Order was announced in May 2005.

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For More Information, Contact:

Maureen Boyle Government Releations Regina Phone: (306) 787-5959