For Master Corporal Therese “Dollie” Simon, military service has never been separate from community service. A member of the Fort Resolution Patrol in the 1st Canadian Ranger Patrol Group (1CRPG), her over three decades of service reflects a lifelong bond with the land, her people, and the North. Often referred to as an Elder, though she humbly resists the title, Simon has spent much of her life breaking down barriers of both gender and cultural misunderstanding. Her contributions have been recognized with the Order of Military Merit, one of the Canadian Armed Forces’ highest honours.
Simon has become a bridge between the military and northern communities. Her leadership does not begin in classrooms or training halls, but at kitchen tables, listening, sharing, and guiding conversations about resilience, healing, and trust. Through presence rather than authority, she has helped strengthen relationships between the Rangers and the 64 remote communities across the Arctic.
Her path began in childhood, where she was always happiest outdoors, able to watch the Rangers depart on patrol. Joining them allowed her to serve Canada while remaining rooted in her cultural and environmental heritage. Alongside her Ranger duties, she worked as a teacher and community wellness coordinator with the Deninu Kųę́ First Nation, extending her influence into education and well-being.
One of her most enduring contributions has been leadership of the Junior Canadian Rangers program. Stepping forward when a predecessor could no longer continue the role, Simon combined her teaching background with mentorship to guide youth in Fort Resolution for three decades. She measures success not by awards but by transformation — seeing young people once struggling become confident community leaders.
For the past five years she has also served as a ranger mentor with 1CRPG Headquarters, travelling across the North to support patrols, encourage women in leadership, and strengthen the Junior Ranger program. She describes the role simply: being present, listening, and encouraging others.
Her selection marks the first time a Canadian Ranger has received this award, recognizing a form of service long rooted as an essential part of Canada’s defence team, built over generations of partnership and trust building with northern-based communities.
Simon remains focused on expanding youth programming and ensuring traditional knowledge continues to be passed forward. Her advice reflects her approach to service: give your best effort, remain true to yourself, and support those around you.
Simon was nominated by Lieutenant-Colonel Travis Hanes.
