NEWS RELEASE
COUNTY OF SIMCOE
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Twenty-four paramedics from across the District of Muskoka, County of Simcoe and the Chippewas of Rama First Nation were awarded the Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medals, recognizing their years of exceptional service.
The Governor General of Canada, Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, was represented by Lt.-Col Jean-Martin Brault from Canadian Forces Base Borden at a special ceremony held July 19.
Those honoured at this event were part of a group of Ontario-based paramedics who received this medal in 2020 and 2021, and due to COVID-19 restrictions, the traditional ceremony was delayed. The special awards ceremony was held in Gravenhurst, joined by partners and fellow award recipients from the District of Muskoka, County of Simcoe and the Chippewas of Rama First Nation Paramedic Services.
The Governor General’s Medal recipients have achieved 20 years of exemplary service in emergency medical services — at least 10 of those years performing duties with potential risk. The Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal, created on July 7, 1994, recognizes 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. For more details, visit www.gg.ca.
“We are very proud of the work that Carrie Hassberger accomplished in her time with Rama Paramedic Services. She served as both a paramedic and chief, and always worked with dedication, determination, and a commitment to the community. We are better because of her, and we are happy to see her recognized with this medal,” said Jeremy Parkin, director of emergency services/fire chief, Chippewas of Rama First Nation.
“Today’s honourees have served with distinction, acting as tremendous ambassadors for not only their service, but for paramedicine as a whole. Their compassion and commitment has left an indelible mark, and on behalf of the residents and visitors to the County of Simcoe, thank you and congratulations,” said County of Simcoe Warden George Cornell.
“I am proud that the District of Muskoka is served by such amazing paramedics, and I am very pleased to be part of this special recognition ceremony. Our community is well served by such outstanding paramedics,” said District of Muskoka Chair John Klinck.
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