Medal of Bravery
Awarded on: 2006-06-22
Invested on: 2006-10-13
Michel Jalbert, M.B. (posthumous)
Nathalie Lavoie, M.B.
Medal of Bravery
On July 29, 2005, Michel Jalbert lost his life while attempting to save his nine-year-old son from drowning in the Rivière Rouge, in L'Annonciation, Quebec. The victim and his children were swimming some eight metres from shore when they were suddenly carried downstream toward a deep trench. Fighting the strong current, two of the children headed for shore while their younger brother drifted out toward powerful eddies. Seeing his son's predicament, Mr. Jalbert swam to the struggling boy and, with failing strength, pushed him toward shore while shouting at his wife to come and assist them. Ms. Lavoie immediately dove in, brought the nearest victims back to the water's edge, then returned for the boy and pulled him to safety. Tragically, Mr. Jalbert succumbed to exhaustion and, despite Ms. Lavoie's best efforts, could not be saved.