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OBSERVER QUESNEL - CARIBOO
SINCE 1908
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
VOL. 99 NO. 81
www.quesnelobserver.com
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Hometown heroes
Gallant brothers receive Governor General’s Medal of Bravery ANNIE GALLANT Observer Reporter It’s not very often B.C. residents visit a Canadian iconic residence like Rideau Hall in Ottawa, the home of Canada’s Governor General and the site of Royal visitors and international dignitaries. But on June 7 that’s just where Matthew and Simon Gallant were honoured to be in attendance for the presentation of their Medals of Bravery along with 44 other recipients. In January 2011, the Gallant brothers rescued twin toddlers from a burning apartment without thought to their own safety or the wisdom of such a spontaneous act of bravery. And since that event, both men have found the attention and recognition for their extraordinary act of courage both disconcerting and somewhat undeserved, claiming anyone in the same circumstances would have done the same. However, most who hear the story disagree, arguing it takes a special kind of person or persons to act so selflessly. As the ceremony began with an address by Governor General David Johnston, 46 Medal of Bravery recipients and one Star of Courage recipient were presented by Johnston, their courageous acts read to the more than 120 invited guests and the Medal of Bravery pinned to their chest over the heart. Matthew and Simon, resplendent in their suits and looking very proud, graciously accepted their medals and were photographed with the Governor General. It was a very moving moment for his parents, Matthew’s fiancé Jody Rosner and three family friends from Vancouver who made the trip to Ottawa to see the brothers receive this exceptional honour. A luncheon reception was served in one of the many palatial reception rooms and the guests and recipients were invited to tour Rideau Hall. Although only one toddler survived the ordeal, the remaining twin Samantha Irwin, is doing much better than medical experts expected and one day she will learn of the incredibly brave brothers who saved her life.
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Simon, left and Matthew Gallant received Medals of Bravery June 7 from Governor General David Johnston. They enjoyed a walk in the Rideau Hall gardens in between rain showers.
Annie Gallant photo
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2013 Stage Headliners Friday, July 19 at 3:00 pm Saturday, July 20 at 2:00 pm Children’s Headliner: Sharon & Bram Friday evening - 7:30 pm Aaron Pritchett Saturday evening - 7:30 pm Kenny Shields and Streetheart
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from the staff at the Cariboo Observer