Public Safety and Solicitor General
Police officers selflessly put their lives on the line each and every day to ensure British Columbians are safe. That’s why 121 deserving women and men of law enforcement were recognized for their bravery and dedication at this evening’s 37th annual Police Honours Night at Government House.
Lt.-Gov. Judith Guichon and Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Mike Farnworth presented awards to officers of all ranks, from municipal departments and RCMP detachments, for their extraordinary accomplishments in life-saving incidents, their determination above and beyond the call of duty and their work to make B.C.’s communities safer.
Some of this year’s recipients included:
- A team of constables from Port Moody who entered a burning home, despite thick smoke and very limited visibility, to search for and evacuate residents.
- Vancouver officers who placed themselves at substantial risk to protect the public while pursuing a male suspect on a shooting spree.
- A constable from Chetwynd who searched a steep embankment in cold temperatures and impending darkness to save a hypothermic man from near death.
- Members from Ridge Meadows who entered a residence with an armed home invasion in progress to rescue hostages and apprehend suspects.
- A team of constables from New Westminster who successfully resolved a crisis negotiation involving an armed, suicidal male holding a female hostage.
- A constable from North Cowichan/Duncan who managed a chaotic scene where victims had been stabbed, quickly providing first aid and single-handedly arresting the suspect at large.
In all, 42 officers received the award of valour, the highest award for a police officer in British Columbia. These officers exhibited exceptional courage, regardless of personal safety, in an attempt to save or protect others from harm.
In addition, 79 officers were feted with honours for meritorious service, recognizing exemplary performance that answered the call to service in exceptional ways.
Quotes:
Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Mike Farnworth –
“Tonight’s awards are just a highlight of the courage, aptitude and commitment — not only to their profession, but also to their communities — that epitomise law enforcement officers here in British Columbia. They selflessly put themselves in harm’s way to protect the public every single day. On behalf of all British Columbians, we thank you for your bravery, courage and dedication to duty.”
Lt.-Gov. Judith Guichon –
“Although these awards can honour only a few special acts, we can take comfort in knowing the exemplary service and dedication of all of our law enforcement officers continues to keep communities across the province safe. Congratulations on your outstanding leadership and bravery, and thank you for your commitment to the safety and care of all British Columbians.”
Quick Facts:
- Police Honours Night recognizes members of independent municipal police forces, the RCMP, First Nations and transit police services who have acted in an exemplary manner.
- In all, more than 9,000 members of these services deliver policing throughout B.C.
- Representatives from the B.C. Association of Chiefs of Police and the Ministry’s Police Services Division comprise a committee that selected the recipients.
Learn More:
Police Services Division website: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/justice/criminal-justice/policing-in-bc
A backgrounder follows.
