Oct 01, 2014

In a formal ceremony at last week’s Ontario Association of Paramedic Chiefs’ Awards Gala, two Frontenac Paramedic Service paramedics received the Governor General’s Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal, and a third received the McNally Award of Bravery.

“I am very proud of our paramedics who work every day to keep us safe, and continue do so in a manner that warrants such prestigious acknowledgement,” says Denis Doyle, County of Frontenac Warden. “I encourage the citizens of the City of Kingston and Frontenac County to express gratitude to all of our dedicated paramedics for their commendable service.”

Major General Richard Rohmer presented Exemplary Service Medals to paramedics Marc Lawler (for 30 years of service) and Richard Russell (for 20 years of service), for performing services to the public in an exemplary manner, characterized by the highest standards of good conduct, industry and efficiency.

County of Middlesex Warden Joanne Vanderheyden, OAPC President Norm Gale and Keith McNally, son of Dr. Norman McNally presented the McNally Award of Bravery to FPS paramedic Joe Ferguson. The McNally Award recognizes acts of conspicuous bravery by paramedics in the performance of their duties. It was established in 1976 to honour its namesake who many consider the “father” of the Ontario ambulance system.

Joe received the award for his actions during a call he attended on December 4, 2013 where a car went into the side of a house, coming to rest on a natural gas meter and creating a major gas leak. Combining factors meant there was high potential for an explosion, and the driver was trapped in the car. Without regard for his own safety, Joe pulled the driver over the gear shift, out the passenger side door and dragged him twenty feet to safety, where he began to perform emergency medical treatment.

Major-General Richard Rohmer is Canada's most decorated citizen and the Honourary Chief of the Ontario Association of Paramedic Chiefs.

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