Minister Announces Recipient Of The Benjamin Franklin Fire Service Award
Published Date: 27 Aug 2011
Summary
Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Michael Gallacher, has announced volunteer firefighter Kendall Thompson as this year's recipient of the Benjamin Franklin Fire Service Award for Valour.
Mr Thompson, Captain of Moombi Rural Fire Brigade in Tamworth District was nominated for the award in recognition of the role he undertook as part of NSW Rural Fire Service assistance during the South East Queensland floods.
Captain Thompson, who is a qualified Remote Area Firefighter and
Helicopter Winchman, responded to the devastating flash flooding that impacted
upon Brisbane and surrounding areas in January this year.
Minister Gallacher said Captain Thompson was the designated "down-the-wire"
crewman during the two day deployment and made extraordinary efforts to save
lives.
"More than 45 people were rescued by Captain Thompson and his crew which is
an extraordinary effort," Minister Gallacher said.
"On many occasions their efforts prevented almost certain tragedy in what
were no doubt extremely difficult conditions.
"The actions of Captain Thompson went above and beyond and had it not been
for his willingness to place his own safety at risk, a number of people would
have certainly perished.
This award, the International Association's most prestigious, recognises
the spirit of service, courage and heroism demonstrated by members of the
world's fire and emergency services.
The program is named for Benjamin Franklin, one of the first fire chiefs in
the United States.
Attached files:
Contact Name: Tess Salmon (Minister's Office)
Contact Phone: 0467 740 017
