City of Vernon employee awarded for saving a life

Jan 7, 2020 | 7:44 AM

A city of Vernon employee’s quick instincts earned him a prestigious coin from the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP.

Ewen Pitt, a retired Vernon RCMP officer, received the coin from Supt. Shawna Baher Tuesday as a token of appreciation.

The RCMP said Pitt’s great act of service happened on Dec. 18, 2019.

The retired officer noticed that no one had seen or heard from a 73-year-old Vernon man for several days, which was unusual according to those who knew him. Concerned for the senior’s wellbeing, Pitt contacted the detachment and an officer went to the senior’s residence and found the man in medical distress.

“Ewen listened his intuition and took the initiative to follow up on this matter,” Baher said. “Because of his dedication and caring, we were able to get this gentleman the medical assistance he needed. Ewen is just one example of the exemplary employees we have at this detachment.”

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(submitted photo/Vernon North Okanagan RCMP)

A total of 21 Vernon North Okanagan RCMP coins were distributed in the last year for employees going above and beyond. Some examples of their good service include administering life-saving first aid after an overdose, community service, aiding in an investigation, and locating a missing person.

by Tiffany Goodwein

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