A Simcoe County paramedic has been awarded the Ontario Medal for Paramedic Bravery for his heroic actions during a bad snowstorm this past winter.
Geoff D’Eon, a local primary care paramedic, was recognized earlier this week at a ceremony in Toronto.
On Jan. 13, while off-duty and driving with his family, D’Eon witnessed what he initially thought was a vehicle collision at the base of a hill on Horseshoe Valley Road, just north of Barrie.
After pulling to the side of the road to assist, he approached the scene.
That's when he saw an injured Ontario Provincial Police officer sprawled on the roadway and in the path of incoming traffic.
Without hesitation, D’Eon quickly grabbed the officer and pulled him to safety at the side of the road before the approaching traffic reached him. What led to the officer's injuries was not specified.
"If not for the courageous actions of Paramedic D’Eon, the officer could have been struck and killed," stated a news release about the medal.
D'Eon was one of 11 paramedics honoured with the prestigious medal.
“On behalf of county council, I’d like to offer my sincere congratulations to paramedic Geoff D’Eon and all of those honoured with this year’s Ontario Medal for Paramedic Bravery," said Warden Basil Clarke.
"While it’s true that our paramedics face the unexpected with each call they take, it’s the courage they show in the moments they are compelled to act that truly shine brightest,” Clarke added.
According to a news release from the provincial government, the medal is given to paramedics who have demonstrated great bravery without concern for their personal safety, risking their lives to save others.
Nominations are made through the nominee’s paramedic service and endorsed by their paramedic chief.
The awards were presented May 27 by the Edith Dumont, Ontario's lieutenant governor, and Deputy Premier Sylvia Jones, who is also minister of health, during a ceremony at the Royal Ontario Museum.
"I am delighted to have this opportunity to shine a light on the bravery of our province’s paramedics," Dumont said. "They face dangerous situations that require a great deal of courage, and their actions help create more caring communities.
“These awards will help Ontarians learn about the selflessness and heroism demonstrated by the 11 recipients and appreciate their remarkable service," she added.
There are more than 12,500 paramedics currently employed in Ontario, the largest group of paramedics in Canada.
