When Peter Nesbeth woke up on the morning of September 25, 2008, he never imagined he would be saving a life that day. But the OC Transpo Special Constable, member of CUPE 5500, did just that.
After hearing of a driver heading in the wrong direction on the Ottawa transitway, Peter and his partner arrived at the scene of an accident where an elderly man had crashed into a tree. The pair pulled the unconscious driver from the car moments before an explosion broke out.
On Friday, February 23, Mr. Nesbeth’s selfless act was recognized at a ceremony where Governor General David Johnston presented him with a Medal of Bravery, a decoration honouring people who risk their lives to save or protect the lives of others.
“I thought this was a really special story – something positive. It’s not every day someone receives such prestigious recognition. We are proud of Special Constable Nesbeth and wanted to highlight his courageous actions,” said CUPE 5500 President Wayne Watts.
Nestbeth was one of eight Ottawans and 38 Canadians to receive the award.