Peel paramedics honoured for exemplary service

Eight paramedics received 2024 Governor General's Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal

By ZACHARY ROMAN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Local paramedics have been recognized for their amazing service to the community.

On December 12, the Region of Peel announced eight of its paramedics had received the 2024 Governor General's Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal.

The medal is given to paramedics who have provided 20 years of exemplary service characterized by good conduct, industry and efficiency. Ten of these years of service must have been on duty in the field, where potential risk to the individual is involved.

The following are the recipients of the medal: Jennifer Archdekin, Roxane Bowie, Joel D'Eath, Shelley Sacrey, Jennifer Sham, Nicole Tomasella, and David Wakely.

Paramedic Paul Carson received the EMS Exemplary Service Medal 30-year bar. 

Brian Gibson, Peel's Chief Paramedic, said receiving an Exemplary Service Medal is one of the highest honours a paramedic can achieve.

“The medal acknowledges a paramedic's meritorious service. These individuals have served Peel for decades and provided the best care possible. [I'm] proud to have these professionals as part of Peel Regional Paramedic Services,” said Gibson.

Nancy Polsinelli, Peel's Commissioner of Health Services, said Peel's paramedics are like no other. 

“Peel's dedicated paramedics protect and support 1.5 million lives in one of Canada's most culturally diverse populations, responding to emergencies at the crossroads of the country's busiest highways and airport. It is rewarding for all of us at Peel Region to see the Exemplary Service Medal and a 30-year bar awarded to members of the Peel Regional Paramedic Services,” said Polsinelli.

Peel Region Chair Nando Iannicca said Peel paramedics' commitment to saving lives exemplifies the best of our community. 

“I thank the recipients of the Exemplary Service Medal and Bar for the courage and compassion they have shown to Peel residents for the past 20 and 30 years. Peel is a better place because of them,” said Iannicca.