Medal of Bravery

• Awarded on: October 25, 2001
• Invested on: June 28, 2002

Ernest Gordon, M.B. (Posthumous)
Brian McDonald, M.B.
Medal of Bravery

On August 6, 2000, Brian McDonald attempted to rescue Ernest Gordon who lost his life trying to save a ten-year-old girl from drowning in Campbell Creek near Inuvik, Northwest Territories. Mr. Gordon was picnicking with his family when his daughter's friend was caught in the strong current. Although he could not swim, Mr. Gordon managed to reach the child and grab hold of her but he too was carried away by the rushing waters. He was struggling to keep himself and the little girl afloat when Mr. McDonald arrived at the scene, alerted by cries for help. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Mr. McDonald battled the current until he reached the victims, some 12 metres out. Unable to haul both of them in, he took the child from Mr. Gordon and encouraged him to continue treading water until the arrival of another swimmer who was on his way with a flotation device. Although exhausted, Mr. McDonald was able to return to shore with the little girl but, sadly, Mr. Gordon lost his struggle and drowned moments before help arrived.