September 20th, 2024
On September 20th, we recognize Military Family Appreciation Day, celebrated annually across Canada on the third Friday in September. This day provides a platform to recognize the unique challenges faced by military families and an opportunity for the public to appreciate their contributions.
This year, in honour of military families, we highlight one of our own, Commissionaire Patricia McCallum, who was named Commissionaire of the Year for 2024 this past Spring. Patricia’s recognition not only celebrates her dedication and hard work but also acknowledges the integral role military families play in the defence community.
Patricia’s journey is one that other military spouses might recognize or relate to. After her family returned to Canada following an army posting in Germany, she faced the challenge of re-entering the Canadian workforce, which required recertifying her healthcare qualifications. Weighing her options between continuing in healthcare or pursuing a new career, Patricia took the advice of a friend—whose son is a former commissionaire and now serving in the Canadian Armed Forces—and explored a career in security with Commissionaires. The organization’s supportive environment for military families made it an ideal choice, and her decision highlights how military families often adapt to new opportunities to create success.
In her role with Commissionaires, Patricia has excelled in numerous ways, most notably by her agility to travel to different worksites in Ottawa each day and by taking on specialized security roles around the globe in countries such as Japan, Tunisia, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Spain. Patricia also routinely steps into supervisory roles when required, demonstrating her leadership abilities.
When asked about her transition into a second career with Commissionaires, Patricia said: “Being a military spouse is not just a job but a way of life. I know that it’s important for people to have that sense of community and togetherness and you still have that perspective in the Corps through the jobs they offer.”
Patricia’s story demonstrates Commissionaires’ understanding of military family members’ challenges and needs. Part of the Commissionaires mandate is to provide veterans’ family members with employment and a work environment where they can thrive while being flexible with the demands of their loved one’s military service.
As we salute Patricia’s well-deserved recognition, we also thank all military families who serve their communities through strength, loyalty, and adaptability. Congratulations, Patricia, and thank you to all military family members for everything you do!
For more information see: Celebrating the Year’s Best at Commissionaires – Commissionaires