Two Niagara Regional Police officers honoured for bravery by Province

Two Niagara Regional Police officers were among 21 officers province-wide honoured today (June 22) with the Ontario Medal for Police Bravery by Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario at a special ceremony at Queen’s Park.

From Niagara, Constable Mike Delano and Constable Christian Gifford were given the medal, the province’s highest honours given to police officers.

At the same time, 13 fire fighters – none from Niagara – received the Ontario Medal for Firefighter Bravery.

“I have spent much time thinking about the constant risks and dangers that first responders face. Our province has benefitted greatly from their service, and today, we recognize the remarkable bravery of 34 police officers and firefighters from across Ontario,” said Dowdeswell at the ceremony.

“In accepting these medals, I hope that these brave men and women will re-commit themselves to serving the public with integrity, knowing that their accomplishments will help motivate a new generation of Ontarians to join their ranks – looking to follow their example.”

“Ontario is fortunate to be home to the best police officers and firefighters in the country,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner.

“When confronted with the perils these men and women faced, most of us would have hesitated – they didn’t. They ran toward danger. And for that we honour them with the province’s highest award for bravery – their work is an inspiration to us all. On behalf of a grateful province, we thank them for their dedication to their communities and their extraordinary courage.”

Since 1975, only 315 Ontario Medals for Police Bravery have been awarded while since 1976, just 260 Ontario Medals for Firefighter Bravery have been awarded.