Released 15/11/2017
The outstanding contribution of 45 ACT Emergency Services Agency staff and volunteers has been recognised with the presentation of National Medals today.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Mick Gentleman said each of the recipients of the National Medal had provided the ESA and the Canberra community with long and distinguished service.
“It was an absolute pleasure to personally congratulate all of the recipients in a special ceremony at the National Gallery of Australia,” Minister Gentleman said.
“Today’s 45 recipients have been rewarded for the years of dedicated service provided to the ACT community. They represented a combined total of 865 years of service across all four services with the ESA.
“Personnel with the ACT Ambulance Service, ACT Fire & Rescue, ACT Rural Fire Service and the ACT State Emergency Service all demonstrate an outstanding level of commitment every day in helping to keep Canberra safe.”
The National Medal was established on 14 February 1975 as one of the original elements of the distinctive Australian system of honours and awards. The Governor-General awards the National Medal, with nominations made by the Chief Officer of the nominee service.
National Medals are presented for 15 years qualifying service, with Clasps also presented for each additional qualifying period of 10 years.
“As well as presenting the National medal to paid staff with the ESA, I would also like to pay tribute to the many volunteers of the ACTRFS and ACTSES who have received this distinguished medal,” Minister Gentleman said.
“The commitment shown by volunteers never goes unnoticed and together with all members of the ESA, they regularly support the Canberra community in times of need,” Minister Gentleman concluded.
During today’s ceremony, the Minister presented:
- 27 National Medals (15 years)
- 17 First Clasps (25 years)
- One Second Clasp (35 years)
- Statement ends -
Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases