Fire Chief Donald Joseph MacLellan, M.B.
Medal of Bravery
On 22 October 1982, Fire Chief Donald MacLellan of the Antigonish, (Nova Scotia) Fire Department attempted to save the life of George MacNeil, who had collapsed at the bottom of a sewer filled with noxious gas. Mr. MacNeil was overcome after he had entered the manhole to assist a fellow worker. Mr. William Van der Linden, an area resident, pulled the worker to the surface but he became dizzy and was forced to abandon his search for the second victim. Fire Chief MacLellan arrived at the scene and determined to rescue Mr. MacNeil. Without the protection of a breathing apparatus, but aware of the obvious danger, he lowered himself into the six-metre-deep hole. Fire Chief MacLellan found Mr. MacNeil face down and, bearing the full weight of the unconscious man, carried him to the narrow exit. Sadly, Mr. MacNeil could not be revived. Fire Chief MacLellan, a twenty-seven-year veteran firefighter, displayed a professionalism and dedication well beyond the call of duty.
(Mr. George MacNeil was awarded the Star of Courage for his part in the rescue; Mr. Van der Linden, the Medal of Bravery).