Chief Petty Officer 2nd Class Banford Broome is nominated for a Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation for his contribution to the wellbeing of the Veterans in Atlantic Canada and his work to educate the local community on the sacrifices and achievements of Veterans.
As an Atlantic Provinces representative for the Veterans UN/NATO Canada group, he helped build a welcoming community for Veterans who are seeking friendship, connection, and/or assistance transitioning to life beyond the Canadian Armed Forces. He specifically champions mental health awareness and services through dissemination of health service information, volunteers in mental health awareness motorcycle rides or simply by being a friend and shoulder to lean on to anyone who reaches out.
CPO2 Broome has demonstrated leadership in the Veterans community through his volunteering with such organizations as Wreaths Across Canada and the Camp Hill Veterans Memorial Building. From speaking at a Fallen Police Officer’s ceremony in Halifax to being the driving force behind Halifax’s 100 Bells of Peace with city and military officials, he has shown himself to be a tireless contributor to commemorating and honouring Canada’s fallen and Veterans.
He organized the 10th annual National Peacekeepers Ceremony in Halifax and ensured that the 2020 ceremony went ahead in keeping with Covid pandemic restrictions. During the pandemic, he collaborated closely with partners to make food bank deliveries and provide grocery shopping and delivery to Veterans and other vulnerable people. He has helped Veteran residents of Camp Hill by participating in commemorative ceremonies held at the residence.