Ayr, Ontario
Mr. James Wellheiser served in the Canadian Armed Forces for many years and remains very active with Veterans’ causes. As an active member of The Royal Canadian Legion, during the lead-up to Remembrance Day and Veterans Week, Mr. Wellheiser is involved with the Poppy Fund. He also takes time to deliver presentations to as many as eight schools, speaking about his experiences as a soldier and the role of the Canadian military throughout history. Mr. Wellheiser has also held many positions with the Canadian Airborne Forces Association, including President. He has also been active with the Cadets for ten years and carries a flag with the Colour Party on Remembrance Day. Mr. Wellheiser was also involved with a dedication to a First World War Museum in the town of Nervesa, Italy to highlight the 116th Battalion in which his uncle served. He collected uniforms, gear, and memorabilia and delivered the items to the museum in Italy, all at his own expense. The exhibit is dedicated to Mr. Wellheiser’s uncle and is the only Canadian exhibit. For the past two years, Mr. Wellheiser has been a counsellor for both Veterans and first responders suffering with post-traumatic stress disorder.