The Nova Scotia Medal for Bravery is awarded to everyday citizens who risk their lives to save others. Photo: NS Government.
Premier Tim Houston presented the Nova Scotia Medal of Bravery to four exceptional individuals from our province during a ceremony in Halifax. Talbot Boyer of Dartmouth, Scott Buchanan of Baddeck, Adam Lefort of Grand Étang, and Robert McGregor of Economy were recognized for their remarkable acts of bravery.
Premier Houston commended their extraordinary courage, saying, “Nova Scotians always look out for one another, even in the most challenging and perilous situations. The heroic actions of Talbot, Scott, Adam, and Robert are an inspiration to us all. On behalf of all Nova Scotians, I want to recognize and thank these individuals for their bravery and selfless acts when people needed it the most.”
The Nova Scotia Medal of Bravery is given to individuals who have risked their lives to safeguard the lives or property of others.
Scott Buchanan, a resident of Baddeck, sprang into action on February 17, 2020, when he witnessed two people falling through the ice near a waterfall in his hometown. Without hesitation, Mr. Buchanan leaped into the frigid waters, plummeting 2.1 meters (seven feet) beneath the surface, to shield the endangered individuals from the fierce current. He held on to them for a harrowing 20 minutes until help arrived.
Robert McGregor’s act of valor took place on June 11, 2020, when he spotted flames in a window of a house near Truro. Realizing that someone was trapped inside, unconscious and on fire, he made several valiant attempts to rescue the person. Despite Mr. McGregor’s quick and heroic intervention, the victim’s injuries proved to be fatal.
Talbot Boyer, while operating a Halifax Transit bus on January 29, 2021, noticed a vehicle that had overturned and caught fire on Upper Water Street in Halifax. Mr. Boyer sprang into action, pulling the vehicle’s occupant out of the burning wreckage and employing snow to extinguish the flames. Moments later, the vehicle exploded, underscoring the danger of the situation.
Adam Lefort’s heroic act occurred on June 22, 2021, as he was tubing down the Margaree River. When a woman fell from her tube and became trapped in deep water, unable to swim, Mr. Lefort demonstrated exceptional bravery. He plunged into the water, brought the woman to the surface, and held onto her until help arrived.
In recognition of their incredible feats, Brad Johns, Attorney General and Minister of Justice, offered his appreciation, stating, “The acts of bravery of those recognized today inspire each and every one of us with their courage and their selflessness. These individuals are heroes, and we thank them for their brave actions.”
This ceremony marked the 13th occasion in which brave Nova Scotians who risked their lives to assist others were recognized. It is important to note that the awards were temporarily suspended in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the inception of this program in 2008, including today’s recipients, a total of 47 courageous Nova Scotians have received the Nova Scotia Medal of Bravery, underscoring the indomitable spirit of our province’s residents.
