In recognition of their bravery, seven Londoners were presented with one of Ontario’s highest honours for firefighters.
Lieutenant Governor for Ontario Elizabeth Dowdeswell awarded the Ontario Medal for Firefighter Bravery to Cpt. Tracy Bradt, Cpt. Todd Broomhead, Cpt. Christopher Champagne, Senior Qualified Firefighter Jason Timlick, Firefighter Andrew Braatz, Firefighter Paul Bray, and Firefighter Craig Milliken in recognition of the courage they displayed during hazardous circumstances.
They were presented with the medals for their life-saving actions of two people who were trapped in a fire on Egerton Street on December 8, 2017. During the blaze, one firefighter was trapped by flames and had to call a ‘mayday’, where others were called in to help.
“These firefighters showed extreme bravery and courage in the line of duty, under extremely dangerous and hazardous conditions,” said London Fire Chief Lori Hamer. “They put their own lives at risk in order to successfully rescue the trapped tenants. We are very proud of them – they are most deserving of the prestigious Medal of Bravery.”
Acting Mayor Josh Morgan also offered his thanks to the seven firefighters along with the rest of the fire department in a statement.
“Not only is the awarding of the prestigious Medal of Bravery to seven London Firefighters so richly deserved, it is also a poignant reminder of how fortunate we are as Londoners to have such dedicated and brave members working to keep us safe each and every day,” said Morgan. “We must also acknowledge and recognize the families of all London firefighters for sharing these heroes with our community on a daily basis.”
The Ontario Medal of Bravery was created in 1976 to honour firefighters that have gone above and beyond the call of duty to protect and serve their community.
