News release - the County of Simcoe
Ten County of Simcoe Paramedic Services members were honoured at the Ontario Association of Paramedic Chiefs Annual General Meeting Awards Dinner and Gala, held Thursday, September 28 at Blue Mountain in Grey 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 (EMS) 2023 Medal for 20 Years of Exemplary Service. Paramedic Ben Valentine received the 2023 First Bar for 30 Years of Exemplary Service.
“I couldn’t be prouder of not only the incredible men and women honoured, but all County of Simcoe Paramedics," said Mills. "The care they provide, the skills they have and the strength and empathy they show to not only their patients but to each other are second to none. Thank you for serving the County of Simcoe with such distinction.”
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 in the performance of duties involving potential risk.
“These honourees have and continue to provide the highest quality care to their communities during difficult and distressing times," said Basil Clarke, Warden, County of Simcoe. "Their professionalism, dedication and leadership are inspiring to those they so selflessly serve.”
About the County of Simcoe
The County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe.ca.
Banner image via the County of Simcoe - L to R: Cory Schepers, Doug Whiffen, Patrick Hervieux, Sarah Mills, Frank Potter, Owen Van Dyke, Mark Hildebrandt, Shannon Bacci, and Laura Gillies
