Long-term Navy Club members honoured

Standing together for a commemorative photo were MP Arpan Khanna with Wayne, Dick, Denis, Bill, Colleen, Bryan, and Janis. (Ron Yuzark Photo)

Ron Yuzark, Echo Correspondent

The Oxford County Naval Veterans Association (OCNVA) hosted a special recognition ceremony on Sunday, April 26, where several long serving members were honoured for their exceptional contributions to both the Navy Club and the broader Woodstock community.

The event took place at the Woodstock Navy Club on James Street, shortly after the organization’s general meeting. Oxford MP Arpan Khanna visited the club to present official certificates acknowledging the recipients’ dedication, volunteerism, and longstanding service. The recognition aligned with MP Khanna’s ongoing practice of highlighting “community champions” across Oxford County through local visits and parliamentary acknowledgements.

Those honoured were Bryan Bucholtz, Danny Dukes, Peter Keith, Bill Arthurs, Wayne Murphy, Colleen Cant, Dick Henshall, Rick Dentremont and Janis Henderson-Devries.

Each honoree was acknowledged for going above and beyond in their support of the club, its membership, and the community at large. Their contributions ranged from volunteer leadership and event support to long term service that strengthened the club’s role as a gathering place for veterans and residents.

Khanna has frequently used community visits and House of Commons shoutouts to spotlight individuals and organizations making a positive impact in Oxford County. Recent recognitions have included local volunteers, small business milestones, and achievements in athletics and professional fields.

The Navy Club of Canada has also earned recognition, receiving the Donna Burleigh Accessibility Achievement Award in early 2025 for major facility upgrades that enhanced its ability to serve veterans, families, and community groups.

Sunday’s ceremony highlighted the Navy Club’s ongoing role as a cornerstone of community engagement in Woodstock. The recognition underscored the value of volunteerism within the organization and celebrated the individuals who have helped sustain its programs, events, and outreach efforts.

Club representative Cant noted Khanna had approached the Navy Club with the intention of recognizing members who had demonstrated exceptional commitment.