Rideau Hall, Friday, October 13, 2006

It is an honour to stand in the presence of heroes.

I do not use the term “heroes” lightly. No one who reads the account of your deeds can help but be deeply moved.

You have done things that set you apart from your fellow citizens.

You did not hesitate to plunge into freezing water or charge into infernos.

You confronted violent attackers or fought off vicious animals. The dangers were unthinkable.

And in some cases, you risked your lives to save people who wanted to end their own lives.

The incredible courage you have all shown is a lesson in humanity for the rest of us. But sadly, some of today’s recipients even paid the ultimate price.

Your actions are meaningful on several levels.

First, of course, there are the people who were saved. By pulling these men, women and children from the jaws of death, you have given them a new lease on life.

I can think of no act that is more laudable, first by the fortunate person rescued, but also by his or her friends and family, whose lives would have been greatly impoverished by such a tragic loss.

Your actions are also deserving of our highest praise because of your willingness to step forward and act, without regard for your own safety.

Compassion, solidarity, selflessness, strength. These are the qualities that define bravery as the noblest expression of civic responsibility and a stand against indifference.

Of course, this is poignantly demonstrated by the example of those brave individuals who lost their lives while saving others, whom we are honouring today.

And finally, your brave actions hold a great deal of significance for each and every one of us.

Every day, we are confronted by news stories filled with pain, despair and violence. Sometimes, after a tragic natural disaster or a terrible act of aggression, it can seem as though we live in a world without hope.

But we mustn’t give in to hopelessness and cynicism, which can destroy our spirit. Fortunately, you have given us a reason to believe that such kindness exists as you help to put a human face on humanity.

All of you who are gathered here today, as well as those who did not survive their valiant efforts, are symbols of hope for all of us. Through your actions, you give us an example to follow.

In the end, your actions speak louder than anything else. They will live on in the memories of those whose lives you have touched.

In that respect, these decorations are more than a recognition of your bravery. They are also a symbol of the gratitude that all Canadians feel for what you have done.

In this world where human suffering is too common and generosity is so essential, you remind us of the very best that human beings can be.

I thank you for that, from the bottom of my heart.

It is my fervent hope that we will draw strength from the example of your bravery, and that we will endeavour to be courageous in our own lives.

Thank you.