Skip to main content Skip to footer

Region of Waterloo paramedics receive awards from Governor General for 30 and 40 years of exemplary service

 

Waterloo Region – First and second bars of the Governor General's Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal have been awarded to Region of Waterloo paramedics celebrating 30 and 40 years of exemplary service to the community.

The Exemplary Service Medal celebrates the accomplishments of paramedics who have provided at least 20 years of exemplary service distinguished by high standards of conduct, industry and efficiency. A first bar celebrates an additional 10 years of service, totaling 30 years of exemplary service.

The following Region of Waterloo paramedics received their first bar:

  • Rob Crossan, Deputy Chief
  • Andrea Gebbie, Advanced Care Paramedic
  • Chris Mantynen, Advanced Care Paramedic
  • Jeremy Parkinson, Advanced Care Paramedic
  • Kevin Petendra, Deputy Chief
  • Pamela Smith, Primary Care Paramedic
  • Jim Topham, Deputy Chief

Training Specialist Dean Wick received his second bar. A second bar celebrates another 10 years of service on top of the 20-year medal and the 10-year first bar. This totals 40 years of exemplary service.

“On behalf of Council and our residents, thank you to the seven Region of Waterloo paramedics celebrating 30 and 40 years of exemplary service. Congratulations on your well-deserved Governor General awards,” said Karen Redman, Chair, Regional Municipality of Waterloo.

“Receiving a first or second bar for the EMS Exemplary Service Medal is a career highlight for paramedics that have served their communities with distinction and professionalism for 30 years or longer. We are so proud of this year’s recipients. Each of them are representative of the dedicated and amazing paramedics at the Region of Waterloo Paramedic Services,” said John Riches, Chief of Paramedic Services, Region of Waterloo Public Health and Paramedic Services.

The awards were presented to Region of Waterloo paramedics by Deputy Premier and Minister of Health Sylvia Jones at the Ontario Legislative Assembly in Toronto on Wednesday, December 13, 2023.

 

-30-