The Ontario government is recognizing 15 police officers and nine firefighters with the 2024 Ontario Medal for Police Bravery and the Ontario Medal for Firefighter Bravery – the province’s highest official honour for courage in the line of duty.
Lieutenant Governor Edith Dumont says each recipient put their own lives at risk when others were in danger, noting that their selflessness and vigilance make them an inspiration to colleagues and community members across Ontario.
Recipients are being honoured for a wide range of heroic acts, including pulling unconscious crash victims from burning or submerged vehicles, rescuing residents from apartment fires, and swimming into dangerous waters to reach someone in distress. Other recipients confronted armed suspects during active shootings, subdued violent attackers, and assisted victims facing immediate and life-threatening danger.
Solicitor General Michael Kerzner says Ontario’s firefighters and police officers consistently step into harm’s way to protect others, and that this year’s award recipients “went above and beyond the call of duty,” demonstrating courage that plays a vital role in community safety.
The Ontario Medal for Police Bravery was established in 1975, with its firefighting counterpart following in 1976. Nominations are submitted by police services and fire departments and must be endorsed by the applicable police chief, fire chief, or OPP commissioner. Recipients are selected by an independent panel made up of members of Ontario’s policing and firefighting communities representing regions across the province.
The province says the medals represent not only exceptional actions in dangerous situations, but also the ongoing commitment of first responders who stand ready to defend and save lives every day.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)