St. John’s, N.L. — RCMP Corp. Jason Butler and Corp. David Hopkins — who both risked their lives to save others in dangerous situations — have been chosen recipients of the RCMP Commander’s Commendation for Bravery awards.
Butler swam into frigid waters to rescue a woman from drowning, while Hopkins showed composure and good judgment when he intervened to help save an erratic person who had been determined to harm himself.
They were among 34 RCMP Newfoundland and Labrador employees — including police officers, civilian members and public service employees — who were honoured recently with RCMP NL awards for years of service and commendations for outstanding service and bravery.
The awards were presented by assistant commissioner Ches W. Parsons, commanding officer of RCMP NL. Commissioner Brenda Lucki, head of the RCMP in Canada, also attended the event.
“Newfoundland and Labrador’s RCMP is made up of talented men and women who collectively provide exemplary policing services for the residents and communities of this province,” Parsons said. “The award recipients have much to be proud of.”
The following other awards were presented:
Commander’s Commendation for Outstanding Service
Corp. Trevor Baldwin
Baldwin is officially commended for outstanding performance leading and supporting the RCMP contingent involved in the Royal Nova Scotia Tattoo.
Corp. Dave Emberley
Emberley is officially commended for his significant contribution to the expert witness program. His input has helped to ensure public safety in both our province and our country.
Public Service Employee
Rhonda Harte-Pittman
Pittman was recognized for her outstanding contribution to the safety and well-being of RCMP employees and their families. Under her leadership, processes, policies and training have resulted in a change in RCMP culture. Her work ensured development of a health services team, which delivers an outstanding employee wellness program.
Long Service Award recipients
20 years
Supt. Holly Turton
Staff Sgt. Stefan Henri Thoms
Sgt. Tracy Lee Edwards
Corp. Michael Fewer
Corp. Rene Paul Ozon
Const. John Andrews
Civilian member Rick Wayne Hodge
Civilian member Edward Charles Newhook
Civilian member Mark Tucker
25 years
Supt. Patrick Adrian Cahill
Staff Sgt. Ignatius Columbus Hall
Staff Sgt. D. Kent Osmond
Sgt. William Beisler Frisby
Sgt. Anthony Gerard Griffiths
Sgt. Wendy Smith
Sgt. Larry Ernest Clarke Turner
Sgt. Kimball George Vardy
Corp. Benjamin Dyson
Corp. Tracy Horwood
Corp. Ann Margaret Noel
Civilian member Cynthia Nellie Parsons
Public service employee Stephanie Griffiths
Public service employee Gary Martin
30 years
Staff Sgt. Wayne Randell Edgecombe
Staff Sgt. Norman Randell Freeborn (ret’d)
Staff Sgt. Alan Bryan Warner
Sgt. Clarence Albert Rose
Const. Scott Thomas Thistle
Civilian member Mary Anne James (ret’d)
Civilian member Mary Ellisa Powell (ret’d)
35 years
Assist. Comm. Peter Frederick Gerald Clark, M.O.M.
Sgt. Faron Harnum
Supt. Victor Joseph Park (ret’d)
Const. Ed Rossiter (ret’d)
