Dozens of Greater Victoria police officers from municipal departments and the RCMP were recognized for their "bravery and dedication" at the 40th Police Honours Night on April 23 and 24 at Government House.
Over the two nights, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Garry Begg presented 241 B.C. officers with the Valour Award, the highest award for a police officer in B.C., and honours for meritorious service, which recognizes "exemplary performance that answered the call to service in exceptional ways."
“Every day, these dedicated individuals courageously uphold public safety, sometimes putting their lives at risk so the rest of us can live in peace. I’m honoured to have had the privilege to recognize these brave officers serving in police departments in B.C. On behalf of all British Columbians, thank you for your service," noted Begg in a news release.
Among those bestowed with Valour Awards were 20 Saanich Police Department officers, 25 Victoria Police Department officers, one West Shore RCMP officer, and one Central Saanich Police Department officer for "jeopardizing their life" during the 2022 shootout at the Saanich BMO that left six officers injured.
An additional eight Saanich PD officers and 10 VicPD officers were honoured with awards of meritorious service for the same incident.
Furthermore, VicPD constables Sonny Govus, Eric LeQuesne, Ralph Weber, Dept. Chief Const. James McRae and Sgt. Greg Holmes were given awards of meritorious service for "going above and beyond the duties expected of a police officer" by safely removing all civilians from a hotel fire.
Const. Lane Douglas-Hunt of VicPD was also recognized for "displaying selfless actions in her vision, motivation and actions in identifying and addressing gaps in officer wellness support and officer resiliency," noted the release.
“It has been a true privilege to hear the stories of those being honoured over the past two nights,” said B.C. Lt. Gov. Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia in the release. “They have demonstrated true courage and resourcefulness, often at the risk of their own safety, in the line of duty and beyond. I want to share my thanks to them, and to all who support them for their dedication and their service to the Province of British Columbia.”
