Brampton, Ontario
Mr. John Hymers comes from a family with an extensive military history. His grandfather served in the First World War, and his father and four of his uncles served in the Second World War. These role models had a tremendous influence on leading a life helping and supporting others. In high school, Mr. Hymers assisted Veterans at the Sunnybrook Veterans Centre as a volunteer. Later, during his employment with Goodyear Canada, Inc., he produced a 45-minute audio-visual presentation entitled “Salute to Goodyear Heroes.” This “Year of the Veteran” project commemorated 47 employees of Goodyear who were killed during the Second World War. Mr. Hymers has been an active member of the Royal Canadian Legion (RCL) for more than 15 years. For the past 12 years, he has served as a Director of the Warriors’ Day Parade Council. Mr. Hymers personally developed and maintained the website, prepared communications, and distributed information to many individuals and interested groups. On parade day, he helps Veterans who are no longer able to march by organizing rides for them in vintage military vehicles. Mr. Hymers also assisted with the production of a tribute book for the 90th anniversary of the parade. His team is now working on projects to mark the 100th anniversary of the parade in 2021. Mr. Hymers has received many awards for his volunteer community work, including the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.