Local Fire Chaplain Awarded King Charles III Coronation Medal
In a surprise event, Merritt Fire Rescue’s Fire Chaplain, Sherry Peterson, was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal, by MP Dan Albas, MLA Tony Luck, and MP Frank Caputo, on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at 1:30pm, at the Fire Hall: 1799 Nicola Ave, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8
Fire Chaplain Sherry Peterson’s exceptional dedication to the City of Merritt, its fire department, and neighboring communities earned her the distinguished title of International Fire Chaplain of the Year from the Federation of Fire Chaplains in 2023. For over a decade, Chaplain Peterson has served as a trusted source of emotional, spiritual, and practical support, reaching countless individuals and families in times of crisis and beyond. Her compassionate presence has become a beacon of resilience, offering solace and steadfast guidance to those facing adversity.
Her remarkable service came to the forefront during the catastrophic 2021 floods, where she worked tirelessly alongside Emergency Support Services (ESS) and Samaritan’s Purse to provide critical assistance. In addition to offering spiritual comfort, Chaplain Peterson took on hands-on responsibilities, extending practical, heartfelt support to flood victims with exceptional empathy. Her selflessness and kindness were invaluable to community members in their most vulnerable moments, leaving a lasting impact on the lives she touched.
Through Samaritan’s Purse, she extended this same compassionate care to wildfire victims in Lytton, providing consistent and empathetic support — a commitment she continues to uphold today.
Chaplain Peterson’s unwavering dedication to the well-being of her community and beyond has profoundly impacted those around her, inspiring everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her. Her extraordinary service and deep compassion serve as a lasting source of strength and hope for many, particularly as they navigate the challenges of rebuilding their lives in search of a renewed sense of normalcy.
The King Charles III’s Coronation Medal is awarded to those who have made a significant contribution to Canada or to a particular province, territory, region or community of Canada, or have made an outstanding achievement abroad that brings credit to Canada.
