Prestigious provincial medal presented to three Hamilton paramedics

The members of the Hamilton Paramedic Service were awarded the EMS Exemplary Service Medal at the Ontario Association of Paramedic Chief Awards Dinner in Blue Mountain on Thursday evening (Oct. 3).

Primary Care paramedics Jody Solski, and Elaine Urbanowicz, and Advanced Care Paramedic Scott Stevenson were awarded the medal for exemplary service in paramedicine across Canada.

The medals were presented by Brigadier General Forestier, Director General of the Canadian Forces Health Service, on behalf of Governor General Mary Simon.

Solski, a 21-year EMS veteran, is currently assigned to the Community Paramedic Program. Urbanowicz, a 21-year EMS veteran, is currently assigned to front-line ambulance duties.

Stevenson, a 24-year EMS veteran, is currently assigned to the Community Paramedic Program.

“This recognition speaks to the unwavering dedication, skill, and compassion that Jody Solski, Elaine Urbanowicz, and Scott Stevenson have shown in their over two decades of service to our community,” said Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath. “Their commitment to keeping Hamiltonians safe, whether on the front lines or through our Community Paramedic Program, is truly exemplary.”

Hamilton Paramedic Chief Michael Sanderson was also recognized for his exemplary career. It’s the fourth Exemplary Service Medal Sanderson has received.

Represented by a Third Bar, the medal marks 50 years of service in EMS.

Sanderson, who completed his two-year term as President of the Ontario Association of Paramedic Chiefs, is one of only nine paramedics in Ontario, and 17 across Canada, to receive this distinguished honour since the medal’s inception.

“His 50 years of service and leadership in EMS, including his time as President of the Ontario Association of Paramedic Chiefs, sets a standard of excellence for paramedics across the province and country,” said Horwath. “On behalf of the City of Hamilton, I thank you all for your dedication to saving lives and keeping our community healthy and safe.”

Established in 1994 by then-Governor General Romeo Leblanc, the EMS Exemplary Service Medal recognizes exemplary service in paramedicine across Canada.

Recipients must have 20 years of service in EMS. Some 3,420 paramedics have received the medal over 30 years.