At a ceremony held at Queen's Park last night, Gowlings was the proud recipient of the Provincial (Ontario) Employer Support Award for "Support to International Operations," for its outstanding efforts to assist those in the Canadian Armed Forces Reserves.
The firm was formally recognized by the Canadian Forces Liaison Council at its 11th Biennial Ontario Provincial Employer Support Awards event, hosted by the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario.
"As a firm, Gowlings is a strong believer in providing support to our veterans and soldiers, who have risked their lives in pursuit of safety and freedom worldwide," said Scott Jolliffe, Gowlings chair and CEO. "We are tremendously honoured to have received this recognition."
Gowlings demonstrated its unwavering commitment to Gowlings Partner and Canadian Army (Primary Reserve) Infantry Officer Frank Lamie, who was deployed in Kandahar, Afghanistan in 2011 as part of that Canadian Forces Contingent. Upon his return, Gowlings ensured that Frank was seamlessly re-integrated into the firm, and has since been a strong supporter of his ongoing tactical, staff and leadership training with the Canadian Army. Frank continues to have the privilege to serve as a Major in the capacity of Company Commander with The Queen's Own Rifles of Canada.
In addition, Gowlings partner Patrick Shea displayed his personal commitment through a powerful commemorative initiative, which honours Canadian law students who sacrificed their lives during World War I. In November 2014, The Great Law Student Memorial Project resulted in the Law Society of Upper Canada recognizing 59 young men with honorary calls to the Bar at a formal ceremony at Osgoode Hall. Further to this effort, Shea compiled a book entitled They Shall Grow Not Old, which features detailed biographies and photos of the fallen Ontario law students.
Gowlings has also shown significant dedication to veterans and soldiers through its continued contributions and donations to wounded soldiers, and to a fundraising initiative in support of some of the families of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
The Canadian Forces Liaison Council aims to enhance the availability of Reservists for military duty by obtaining the support and co-operation of employers in Canada. Each year, the council recognizes the efforts of dedicated employers who demonstrate considerable understanding and assistance to employees currently enlisted in the nation's Armed Forces.
From the left: Brigadier-General David Patterson, Deputy Commander 4th Canadian Division and Joint Task Force Central, Scott Jolliffe, the Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, Patrick Shea, and Paul Hindo, Canadian Forces Liaison Council Ontario Chair