The contributions and commitment BC Ambulance Service (BCAS)
employees provide to the province and their profession have not gone
unnoticed.

On Nov. 29, 12 BCAS employees were honoured by Canada's Office of the
Governor General and were presented with national exemplary service
medals by the Honourable Steven L. Point, the lieutenant-governor of
British Columbia.

"The BCAS paramedics were recognized because of the high standard of
emergency medical services they have brought to British Columbians,"
said Health Minister George Abbott. "This standard comes through years
of experience, continued enthusiasm and a commitment to quality care.
It is only accomplished with hard work and personal dedication."

The national Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Exemplary Service Award
recognizes professionals in the pre-hospital emergency medical services.
The medal is a member of the Canadian Honours System Exemplary Service
Medals and is given to individuals who have performed their duties in an
exemplary manner, characterized by their dedication to the service, work
ethic and conduct.

"The BCAS is fortunate to have individuals of such a high-calibre
working throughout all levels of our organization," said Sue Conroy,
chief operating officer. "They set an example for members of the
profession, in providing an efficient and effective service in the care
of patients."

BCAS employees honoured were: Rick Atkinson, Rene Bernklau, Paul
Cruickshanks, Bruce Harford, William Leverett, Randy L'Heureux, Dave
Maedel, Robbin Norgren, Brian Petersen, Doug Sager, Timothy Slater and
Robert Smith,

The recipients were presented their medals in a ceremony at Government
House, in Victoria, and heard inspiring nominations written by their
peers.