Canadian Citizenship Judge

James C. McCrae: By James C. McCrae The shortest years of my working life were the three that ended April 28 when my appointment as a Canadian citizenship judge expired, according to Brandon Sun. I move on now with gratitude for the appointment and the experience, carrying with me unforgettable recollections of happy new Canadians, among the finest citizens I have ever been privileged to meet. McCrae three-year term as a citizenship judge expired last month. During my three years, there were 400 to 450 citizenship ceremonies, at least 40,000 handshakes, hugs, smiles and photos, thousands of beautiful children, dedicated citizenship department staff and immigration volunteers, and many special ceremony guests. It was my duty to remind new Canadians of the wonderful rights we enjoy as Canadians, but also to impress upon them the importance of remembering the awful price paid to preserve those rights, and fulfilling our duties to Canada and our fellow Canadians. It was my honour to greet new Canadians in Calgary, Edmonton, Fort McMurray, Iqaluit, Brandon, Shilo, Clear Lake, Thompson, Winnipeg and Ottawa.I was impressed with the unwavering dedication of members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Canadian Forces who attended and stood guard at citizenship ceremonies, adding symbolic colour and bringing with them messages of patriotism and service. (www.immigrantscanada.com). As reported in the news.