Rideau Hall, Friday, June 15, 2007

Throughout history, societies have looked to heroes to inspire their members to pursue noble goals.

Societies need heroes, and fortunately there are some brave individuals who are prepared to step forward and answer the call.

Modern-day heroes show us that when we dig deep and find our moral courage, our willpower and our strength, ordinary human beings can achieve extraordinary results.

The people we recognize in today’s ceremony are certainly cut from that cloth.

The things that have been done by many of the people here today, and some others who, sadly, gave their lives to save others, are astounding.

Reading about the actions described in the citations can take your breath away, when they are not bringing tears to your eyes.

And all of these remarkable individuals tend to downplay their actions, saying things like, “I just did what anyone else would’ve done in my place.”

Their modesty is very laudable, but we all know that what they say is not entirely accurate.

All too often, other people in the same situations look away or do nothing at all to help.

Think of all the sad stories we hear about on a regular basis that are reported as though they are old news.

Too many of these end in tragedy, with no survivors.

All of your stories could have ended the same way. But you or the person you are here to represent made a difference. The actions we commemorate today saved a life, or several lives.

We are often told that we live in a selfish, individualistic world, where no one does anything for anyone else unless there is something to gain.

People complain that there’s no longer any sense of community, any social solidarity that binds us all together.

You are all proof positive that that is not the case.

And that is perhaps your greatest gift to your fellow citizens: the renewal of hope, the renewal in our faith in the very best in humanity.

As I read the citations I was struck by how many times I found the phrase “without concern for her own safety” or “without regard for his own safety.”

To me, that is the most powerful symbol of the transcendent nature of your actions—that all of you were willing to sacrifice your lives to save another.

It doesn’t matter if you saved a loved one or a colleague, a perfect stranger or even someone who didn’t want to be saved.

Through your actions you remind us of the selflessness and nobility that lies within each and every one of us.

I have absolutely no doubt that others will be inspired by your examples. And as such, your actions will lead to other acts of bravery in the future, and save more lives.

For all that you have done, I am very pleased to offer the most heartfelt thanks of your fellow Canadians, and to present these decorations recognizing your outstanding bravery.