Medal of Bravery
Awarded on: 2001-06-27
Invested on: 2001-12-06
John Caldwell MacLeod, M.B.
Mary-Rose MacLeod, M.B.
Medal of Bravery
On August 8, 1999, John and Mary-Rose MacLeod attempted to rescue a man from drowning in the Atlantic Ocean, in Inverness, Nova Scotia. Seeing two brothers in difficulty some 100 metres out, Mr. and Mrs. MacLeod fought the strong current until they reached their side. They handed a piece of driftwood to the stronger of the two and instructed him to swim to safety. They then turned the other individual on his back and, each holding one of his arms, they headed for shore. While Mr. MacLeod struggled to keep the victim's head out of the water, Mrs. MacLeod attempted rescue breathing several times along the way but the high surf and a strong riptide made it very difficult. With diminishing strength and the unconscious man in tow, they continued to battle the rough waters until others arrived to provide assistance near the shore. Sadly, the victim could not be revived.