Fifteen Nova Scotia paramedics were awarded the Exemplary Services Medal today, Friday, Nov. 7, for their hard work helping Nova Scotians when they are most in need.

Each of the recipients has dedicated his or her career to providing high-quality emergency care, sometimes at great personal risk.

Lt.-Gov. J.J. Grant presented the medals during a ceremony at Government House in Halifax.

“Paramedics are the quiet heroes among us who care for our citizens in their most vulnerable moments,” said Lt.-Gov. J.J. Grant. “Today’s investiture symbolizes the Crown’s recognition of paramedics’ devoted service to our communities and provides an opportunity to publicly express our gratitude for their selfless actions.”

Medal recipients are:
— Greg Bayers, Dayspring, Lunenburg Co.
— John Campbell, Parrsboro
— Carlis Coulter, Tatamagouche, Colchester Co.
— James Currie, Shelburne, Shelburne Co.
— Gerald Dunlop, Baddeck
— Allan Keddy, Blockhouse, Lunenburg Co.
— Brian MacDonald, Margaree Centre, Cape Breton
— Travis MacNeil, Little Bras D’or, Cape Breton
— Lorna Mastin, Middleton
— Carla Middleburg, Baie Verte, New Brunswick
— Bill Muirhead, Stellarton
— Mike Newman, Nappan, Cumberland Co.
— Gordon Parker, Truro
— Brian Thibideau, Saulnierville, Digby Co.
— Dale Traer, Waverley

“Paramedics are an amazing group of people who, day after day, rush into unknown situations. They put themselves at risk to help save lives,” said Health and Wellness Minister Leo Glavine. “I want to thank our recipients today, and all paramedics across our province, for your professionalism and your willingness to offer excellent care when and where Nova Scotians need it.”

The Emergency Health Services Exemplary Service Medal was created in 1994. It is part of a national recognition program for people who work in high-risk jobs that enhance Canada’s public safety.

In addition to paramedics, police, firefighters, corrections officers, coast guard members and peace officers are also eligible for exemplary service medals.

Paramedics must be nominated 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 potential risk.

Nova Scotia’s Emergency Health Services system and its paramedics are known, around the world, as leaders in quality patient care and innovation. Representatives from the Netherlands, to Malaysia, and areas across North America, have come to the province to learn about successes here.

For more information on the awards, visit www.gg.ca .

Source: Release