A number of local first responders have been recognized for their bravery in a rescue effort at the Kincardine Pier.
A release from the County says Jim Ainslie and Justin Boucher each received a Commissioner’s Letter of Appreciation for Bravery from the Ontario Provincial Police in an OPP West Region awards ceremony on June 22nd in Chatham.
They were recognized alongside Constable Ed Brunk, Coast Guard Auxiliaries James Cooper and Keith Filby, along with community members Bernhard Thimian, Michael Walsh, Robert McKitterick, and David Jenkins for their extraordinary actions in a rescue effort at the pier in the Fall of 2020.
Bruce County Paramedic Services Chief Steve Schaus says, “While Bruce County paramedics are highly trained for all types of emergency response, Paramedics Jim Ainslie and Justin Boucher performed extraordinary actions by joining the human chain entering rough waters to make a rescue attempt of individuals swept into the lake by treacherous waves.”
He adds, “We are thankful to have Paramedics like them serving our communities and it is a true honour for them to be recognized by our OPP partners.”
Two young women had been swept off the Kincardine pier on a stormy night in the fall of 2020. They were rescued.
A family member who had jumped in to save them, passed away despite resuscitation efforts.
Bruce County Warden Janice Jackson says, “Thank you Paramedics Jim Ainslie and Justin Boucher for your extraordinary actions and service to our region,” said Warden Janice Jackson, adding, “Your Citations for Bravery are well deserved.”