Medal of Bravery
Awarded on: 2001-04-12
Invested on: 2001-12-06
On July 7, 1999, Thomas Passafiume lost his life after rescuing two people from drowning, in Port Maitland, Ontario. While swimming in Lake Erie, a 12-year old girl was swept into deep water by the strong undertow. A bystander went in to assist her but she too was caught in the high waves and became separated from the child. Alerted from nearby by cries for help, Mr. Passafiume, although not a strong swimmer, swam towards the young girl, reaching her some 15 metres away. He grabbed hold of her and, using all his strength, pushed her towards the shore, where other people pulled her out of the water. Mr. Passafiume then made his way to the woman who was still struggling and pushed her into shallower water until she could swim to safety on her own. Sadly, Mr. Passafiume lost his struggle with the fierce undertow and although his body was quickly recovered, he could not be revived.