Commissionaires Dedicate Building to Veteran and Colleague

October 26, 2020

A small group of distinguished guests, colleagues and friends gathered at Commissionaires Northern Alberta, Northwest Territories and Nunavut Division headquarters in Edmonton to commemorate the dedication and naming of the building in honour of decorated WW II veteran and respected commissionaire, Don Murphy.

A plaque, which will be installed in the newly renamed building’s front foyer, includes images of Don, and highlights his distinguished military service along with his later accomplishments and contributions. The plaque reads in part:

Don was one of the last serving WW II veteran commissionaires in Canada. His personable
demeanor made him welcome wherever he was assigned. As a Commissionaires
ambassador he contributed immensely to Northern Alberta Division’s reputation for
quality people. This Headquarters building is dedicated to Don’s commitment to Corps and Country.
Don was born September 1, 1923 and passed away June 3, 2020.

Special guests in attendance shared their thoughts about Don and his contributions:

Brigadier-General W.H. Fletcher, OMM, SMV, CD, Commander 3rd Canadian Division and Joint Task Force (West)
“We talk a lot about service before self, but Don lived that mantra. He would be the last person to tell you about his past, but he was a true hero. We live on the shoulders of this giant.”

Ed Stelmach, former Premier of Alberta
“I fondly remember Don at the Legislature. He was easy going and it was pleasant seeing him each time you entered the Legislature.”

John Slater, Chief Executive Officer, Commissionaires Northern Alberta, Northwest Territories and Nunavut Division
“Don’s life was one of dedicated service. He served his country in war and peace until he could no longer do so.”

Michelle Curé, 3rd Canadian Division HQ AO and longtime friend of and ‘guardian angel’ to Don
“He did so much, gave so much and served so many for so long. But despite all he did, he was so humble.”