Star of Courage
Awarded on: 1973-07-03
Invested on: 1973-11-30
Geraldine Moddejonge, S.C. (posthumous)
Star of Courage
On May 14, 1970, fourteen-year-old Geraldine Moddejonge drowned in an unsuccessful attempt to save a schoolmate at the Parkhill Conservation Area. A party of girls were on a school outing when several decided to go in bathing near the Parkhill dam. One girl, a non-swimmer, suddenly lost her footing and slipped into deep water. She was panic stricken and one of the other girls who went to her aid was pulled under. Geraldine Moddejonge helped the second girl to safety; and then returned to assist the other but a struggle ensued and both were drowned. With complete disregard for her own welfare, Geraldine Moddejonge risked and, in the event, gave her life for her friend.