May 11, 2010

Edmonton...His Honour, Colonel (Retired) the Honourable Donald S. Ethell became the 17th Lieutenant Governor of Alberta in a ceremony today at the Legislature Building in Edmonton.

The event was attended by government officials, friends and family of the Lieutenant Governor and school children from Edmonton, Drayton Valley and Cayley taking part in the School at the Legislature Program. The installation ceremony was followed by outdoor elements including a 100-person guard of honour, a 15-gun salute and the Pipes and Drums of the Edmonton Police Service.

In a pledge to all Albertans, the Lieutenant Governor said “I am honoured and excited by this opportunity to serve our great province. I will strive everyday to earn your confidence and to serve as Her Majesty the Queen’s representative in Alberta with honor, loyalty, integrity and trust.”

Lieutenant Governor Ethell comes to his vice-regal duties following a 38-year military career that included 14 international peacekeeping missions. He retired from the Army as one of the nation’s most decorated peacekeepers and has received numerous honours for humanitarian service.

The Lieutenant Governor holds constitutional responsibilities, such as granting Royal Assent to give legislation the force of law, opening and closing Sessions of the Legislature and swearing-in Members of the Legislative Assembly. The Lieutenant Governor also takes part in ceremonies to honour outstanding citizens, hosts members of the Royal Family and other foreign dignitaries, and joins in a wide range of social events across the province to celebrate community milestones, encourage strong citizenship and recognize Alberta’s community leaders and volunteers.

His Honour will be joined by his wife, Her Honour Mrs. Linda Ethell at many of his upcoming public engagements. They will reside in Edmonton during the approximate five year term in office and will also continue to maintain a home base in Calgary.