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History of the Wrens

with LCdr Donna Murakami

Discover the significant roles these dedicate women made to the war effort.

About the Speaker

LCdr Donna Murakami was born in Hamilton, Ontario. While in high school, she joined the Naval Reserve and trained as an Administration Clerk. After graduating from Humber College in Nursing and obtaining her RN designation, she was promoted to Sub Lieutenant. Upon completing the necessary training courses and occupying many senior positions, she became the Executive Officer at HMCS YORK. She remained in service and received the Canadian Forces Decoration with two bars. She retired after 35 years of service.

Donna was employed full time with the Royal Bank of Canada in held many managerial positions in Systems, and Head Office, Training Instructor and Program Delivery Officer. After 35 years of service, she retired from the Bank.

Retirement allowed Donna to volunteer with several organizations including the Women’s Royal Canadian Naval Service, Nursing Sister’s Association of Toronto, holding the position of membership Secretary and Treasurer for both groups. Served as Chairman of the Board for the Great Lakes Commissionaires and retired after her term was completed.

Donna continues her volunteering as a member of the Veterans Assistance Committee of the Board at Sunnybrook Hospital, a member of the Veterans Comfort committee at the hospital and Special Events coordinator for the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 165.

In 2004, Donna was knighted as a Dame in the UN Priory of Knights Templar in Madrid, Spain while servicing a a member of the Congress of International Officers Reserve.

In 2016, Donna was knighted as a Dame in the Order of St George in Toronto.

Donna is the recipient of the Queen’s Silver Jubilee medal in 1997, the Queen’s Golden Jubilee medals in 2002, the Sovereign’s Volunteer medal in 2020, the Minister of Veterans Affairs commendation in 2024, and King Charles III coronation medal 2024.

Accessibility
If you require an accessibility accommodation for this program or event, please tell us how we can meet your needs as soon as possible so arrangements can be organized. If you require a sign language interpreter, please let us know at least two-weeks (10 working weekdays) before the program date. 
  
If you are attending a registered program with a support person, please add your support worker as a guest when you sign up. 

COST: Free

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