At the ceremony held in police station 13, Chief Commander Pierre Rousseau and assistant director of the SPVM Pierre Brochet presented certificates of honour to the heroic men who can also potentially receive medals in the future. The two rescued men - Léo-Paul Aubert and Jonathan Forget – were also present. Commander Rousseau mentioned the bravery, courage and presence of mind of his police officers. “That’s the essence of a policeman’s work – to save the lives of people – and it’s a great privilege for me to have you all in my team.”
SPVM assistant-director Pierre Brochet said, “It’s an event that has moved us, because in the last three weeks, our police officers have received a lot of criticism. We are policemen and we are here to help people. Our patrolling officers need to feel that people are behind them. A policeman is a human being who has decided to work in a community where he can help other human beings.”
“Borough Council congratulates the policemen who were involved in the heroic rescue of two people in distress, and we express our admiration and acknowledge their heroic deed; we pay tribute to the courage of officer Daniel Tétreault, the bravery of Sergeant Alain Rioux and the presence of mind of officers Micheline Chamandy and Jean-Sébastien Masson – qualities that were demonstrated during the rescue operation.”
The Council also wishes to highlight the civic-mindedness of Steve Casavant, a resident of 68th Avenue who played an active role in the rescue attempt. “The Council thanks Mr. Steve Casavant for his great civic-mindedness and his remarkable cooperation. By providing support to the officers, he contributed to their successful effort.” Finally, the Council acknowledges the assistance of LaSalle Boulevard resident Louise Courcy. “By providing the victims and rescuers with towels and bottles of water, she not only gave comfort but also solace, and just like Mr. Casavant ensured that their fellow residents need not suffer from the indifference of others.”
