Ottawa, Ontario
During his term at Ottawa City Hall as deputy mayor, Mr. Desroches was an advocate for Veterans and the Canadian military. He successfully spearheaded a number of commemorative initiatives: the naming of a new bridge in Ottawa as Vimy Memorial Bridge, in recognition of the centenary of the First World War and the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge; and the naming of two parks in his ward—the Foot Guards Park, in recognition of the Governor General’s Foot Guards, and the Gus Este Park to honour a local Korean War Veteran and mark the 60th anniversary of the Korean War. Mr. Desroches was also a strong supporter for the homeless and at risk Veterans in Ottawa and engaged his colleagues at City Hall to support them and provide assistance. He was responsible for launching the Support for Veterans Networking Initiative Ottawa, which brought together key players from the city’s housing, counselling, emergency and social services, to help Veterans navigate and access available services through Veterans Affairs Canada and the Royal Canadian Legion. In addition, the City of Ottawa now participates in Veterans Affairs Canada’s Hire a Veteran Program. Mr. Desroches is a founding member of the Barrhaven Branch of the RCL. He has represented the City of Ottawa at military functions and events. Mr. Desroches also lays a wreath in his ward at Brian Good Avenue, annually, to pay tribute to Trooper Brian Richard Good, who was killed in Afghanistan.