During National Paramedic week (May 22 to 28), the District of Muskoka used social media and held a medal ceremony to recognize paramedics’ dedication and contribution to paramedicine. Nationally, this year’s theme was “Faces of Paramedicine” which focused on the diverse and growing range of specialties within the profession.
As part of the recognition, the District of Muskoka and Muskoka Paramedic Services hosted the first MPS Long-Service Medal Ceremony.
Being the first event of its kind, there were a number of staff who received medals in recognition of 12-year, 22-year, 32-years, and 42-years of service. The MPS medal accounts for a paramedic’s years of service and contribution to all paramedic services. Medals are awarded to employees when they have achieved 12 years of continuous service, and bars will be awarded for each additional 10 years of service thereafter.
Why are these medals so special? According to Chief McWilliam, “this is the first time these medals have been awarded in Muskoka. The medal has a number of features on it – a crown at the top representing the District in respect to the monarch of Canada, six maple leafs representing each area municipality in the District of Muskoka. The middle circle, has two maple leafs that represent Canada from coast to coast, a trillium representing Ontario, and the Muskoka EMS crest.”
This week provided the District and community a time to reflect on the dedication and resilience of these exceptional first responders serving our communities.