Medal of Bravery

• Awarded on: September 28, 2000
• Invested on: June 22, 2001

On May 4, 1998, Eric Gould airlifted a forest firefighter caught in a backfire near Whitecourt, Alberta. The man radioed for help when the fire behind him exploded into an inferno that advanced rapidly in his direction. Hearing the emergency call for a light helicopter, Mr. Gould did not hesitate to head for the restricted area. Guided by the pilot of another helicopter too large to land, he flew at tree top altitude into an advancing wall of fire and smoke until he reached the stranded victim. Although the raging fire had reached the helipad clearing, Mr. Gould quickly set down and opened the passenger's door. With the fire only two rotor-blades away, the victim flung himself inside and Mr. Gould lifted him to safety.