Thirteen current and five former paramedics (two posthumously) were awarded Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medals today, January 24.
The recipients have dedicated their careers to providing care to people in their time of greatest need, sometimes at their own personal risk. The medal is a national honour in recognition of their long-standing dedication to the health, safety and well-being of Nova Scotians.
“On behalf of His Majesty the King, I am delighted to recognize an outstanding group of individuals for significant contributions to the health and well–being of Nova Scotians,” said Lt.-Gov. Arthur J. LeBlanc. “Pre-hospital emergency medical services play a critical role in our communities, and I extend my gratitude to the professionals that provide life-saving care with courage and grace, particularly during moments that are fraught with risk and uncertainty.”
Emergency Medical Services professionals can be nominated for the medal by their peers or the public. Recipients must have demonstrated exemplary service in their careers for at least 20 years, including 10 years in an emergency medical services position that involves risk.
“I am honoured to be receiving this recognition for a career that I love deeply and has given me more than I would have ever imagined when I first started 33 years ago. This profession has taught me many life lessons, given me great satisfaction working with highly skilled, passionate and dedicated colleagues, and shown me just how precious life is. During my career, I have cared for many people and their families, mentored new paramedics, and I have heard many stories that have touched my life in a way I will never forget. The paramedic profession has grown by leaps and bounds during my career and I can’t wait to see where it goes next.”
— Crystal Larkin, medal recipient,Barrington
Quick Facts:
– Queen Elizabeth II created the Exemplary Service Medal in 1994
– the award is part of a national recognition program for people who work in high-risk jobs that enhance Canada’s public safety
– police, firefighters, corrections officers, coast guard members and peace officers are also eligible for exemplary service medals
– the medal is part of the Canadian honours system
Additional Resources:
Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal: https://www.gg.ca/en/honours/canadian-honours/directory-honours/exemplary-service-medals/emergency-medical-services-exemplary-service-medal
More information on Canadian honours is available at: https://www.gg.ca/en/honours/canadian-honours
Exemplary Service Medal recipients:
– David Best, East Village, Colchester County
– John Collicott, Amherst
– Timothy Colburn, Tatamagouche
– Sandee Crooks, Bedford
– James Currie, Shelburne
– Lyle Donovan, Neil’s Harbour, Victoria County
– Allister Edwards, Port Caledonia, Cape Breton Regional Municipality
– Peter Fraser, Barra Head, Richmond County
– Ritchie Gilby, Enfield (posthumous)
– Eddy Guenette, Parrsboro
– Geoffrey Haines, Halifax
– Crystal Larkin, Barrington
– Parry MacDonald, Antigonish
– Lorna Mastin, Middleton
– Dan O’Neil, Enfield (posthumous)
– William Poole, Gavelton, Yarmouth County
– Scott Veinot, Wilmot, Annapolis County
– Andrew Walsh, Lantz