Moose Jaw’s 15 Wing base commander, Col. Denis O’Reilly, and his wife Doris are now honorary citizens of the community.
The O’Reillys are moving to Winnipeg as part of a transfer, so to acknowledge their three years in the community, Mayor Fraser Tolmie bestowed on the couple the title of honorary citizens and presented them with certificates, during city council’s July 8 regular meeting.
Tolmie began the meeting by thanking the volunteers who looked after Canada Day, Moose Jawg, the train rides at the Western Development Museum, ParkArt, Sidewalk Days, and the Saskatchewan Air Show. He joked that fewer people were at the recent Saskatchewan Roughriders’ home game since they were in Moose Jaw for the air show.
More than 50,000 people attended the air show this past weekend. Around 27,000 people attended the football game.
He then segued into thanking the O’Reillys for their service in Moose Jaw.
“I believe on her own merits, (Doris) deserves this honorary citizenship,” said Tolmie.
He explained that she had engaged with people living on the base and in the community, while she had built bridges and helped military families make the smooth transition after moving here. She had done work with the Francophone community, while she was also a big help to her husband with his endeavours.
“Doris has sharp elbows,” joked Tolmie, noting she helped start up a roller derby team on the base. “Doris, you are a leader of men and women because you serve with an open heart. The City of Moose Jaw is blessed to have you.”
Denis is originally from Moose Jaw, so it was great for him to come home and serve as base commander, Tolmie said before becoming emotional.
“We’ve been able to build a very strong friendship between the base and the city, and between himself and I,” the mayor continued. “We have had some long (and) deep philosophical conversations and some very lighthearted jokes.”
O’Reilly has always been open to sharing the base and allowing foreign dignitaries to visit, while he also added entertaining amenities such as a water park, Tolmie said. He has been involved in social and community groups, such as the Rotary and the air show, as well.
“The City of Moose Jaw can be known to export great talent. I will sincerely miss, and it is an honour, on behalf of council, to bestow upon you both the honorary citizenship,” he added.
Tolmie then presented Doris and Denis with certificates.
