2015 Medal of Bravery Recipients Honoured

Two courageous people were presented with a Medal of Bravery at a ceremony held today, Oct. 6, at Province House in Halifax.

The Medal of Bravery is awarded annually to individuals who have risked their life protecting the life or property of others.

"It is difficult to adequately define a hero, but I believe a hero is someone who has instincts stronger than fear," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "Instead of stopping, giving up, or looking the other way, they strive in every way physically possible to save someone from danger."

This year's recipients are Dr. Nathan Urquhart, Halifax and Kenneth MacNeil, Sydney Mines.

Dr. Urquhart witnessed a man fall off the boardwalk into the Halifax Harbour at midnight in April. He plunged into the dark, icy cold water where he was able to secure the drowning, unconscious victim. He stayed in the water and kept the victim afloat for fifteen minutes until emergency responders arrived.

Mr. MacNeil helped a young man being attacked by a group of 25-30 young people in front of his home. He intervened to save him and as a result, suffered serious physical injuries including a shattered jaw. By acting quickly, he was able to save the man from a potentially fatal attack in his community.

"I don't really consider it brave, it is the way I was brought up," said Mr. MacNeil. "When you see someone who needs help, you help them. If it were my son, I'd be forever thankful if someone did the same.”

For more information on medal recipients, or to find out how to nominate a hero, visit http://www.novascotia.ca/bravery .