A number of long-time Manitoba paramedics were recognized for their exemplary service Wednesday.
The 22 paramedics received the Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service medal – an award from the Governor General that recognizes paramedics with a minimum of 20 years of service.
In addition to meeting the threshold for time as a paramedic, eligibility requires at least 10 of those years to have been spent performing duties involving potential risk.
Nominations are submitted to a provincial committee, which makes recommendations to a national committee. Eventually, medal recipients are chosen by the Chancellery, the branch of the Governor General’s office responsible for honours.
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The medals were presented by health, seniors and active living minister Cameron Friesen at a Legislative Building ceremony.
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“I’m proud that we’re able to recognize the high standards of work, sacrifices and good conduct of these hard-working professionals who give their all to save others,” said Friesen.
This year, 17 paramedics received 20-year medals, three received a bar recognizing 30 years of service, and two marked 40 years as paramedics.
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