October 12, 2023 · 0 Comments
By Brian Lockhart
Ten County of Simcoe Paramedic Services personnel were honoured at the Ontario Association of Paramedic Chiefs Annual General Meeting Awards Dinner and Gala.
County Director and chief Sarah Mills was joined by deputy chief Patrick Hervieux, platoon supervisor Frank Potter, and paramedics Shannon Bacci, Laura Gillies, Mark Hildebrandt, Cory Schepers, Owen Van Dyke, and Doug Whiffen as recipients of the Governor General Emergency Medical Services 2023 medal for 20 Years of Exemplary Service.
Paramedic Ben Valentine received the 2023 First Bar for 30 Years of Exemplary Service.
The EMS Exemplary Service Medal is a national honour presented by the Governor General of Canada, recognizing professionals in the provision of pre-hospital emergency medical services to the public who have performed their duties in an exemplary manner characterized by good conduct, industry, and efficiency.
Recipients must have completed 20 years of exemplary service, including at least 10 years of performing duties involving potential risk.
“These honourees have and continue to provide the highest quality care to their communities during difficult and distressing times,” said Simcoe County Warden Basil Clarke. “Their professionalism, dedication and leadership are inspiring to those they so selflessly serve.”
The presentation was made at Blue Mountain in Grey County on Thursday, Sept. 29.
“I couldn’t be prouder of not only the incredible men and women honoured, but all County of Simcoe Paramedics, “said Sarah Mills, director and chief County of Simcoe Paramedic Services. “The care they provide, the skills they have and the strength and empathy they show to non only their patients but to each other are second to none. Thank you for serving the County of Simcoe with such distinction.”