RCMP Inspector Gordon Black, M.S.M., Richmond, B.C.
RCMP Corporal Jaime Victor Sebastian, M.S.M., Bogotá, Colombia
Meritorious Service Medal (civil division)
RCMP members Gordon Black and Jaime Sebastian showed leadership and professionalism following the kidnapping of one American and seven Canadian citizens in Ecuador, in September 1999. Throughout the ordeal, then Cst. Sebastian’s interpersonal skills established and facilitated inter-agency cooperation between the Ecuadorean military and national police forces, both responsible for investigating the kidnapping. Insp. Black, a trained and experienced negotiator, maintained contact with the kidnappers and provided valuable advice to the Canadian Ambassador in Ecuador, facilitating future cooperation with all parties involved. Through their expertise, Insp. Black and Cpl. Sebastian brought credit to their police force and to Canada.