The Nova Scotia Medal for Bravery is awarded to everyday citizens who risk their lives to save others. Photo: NS Government.
Four Nova Scotians have been awarded the province’s highest honour for courage, the Nova Scotia Medal of Bravery, during a ceremony held January 15 in Halifax.
Premier Tim Houston presented the medals to Gerrid Hunt of Lower Sackville, Richard MacPhee of Boularderie in Cape Breton, and Sydney residents Ryan O’Shea and Scott Rafuse, recognizing acts of courage that placed their own lives at risk to protect others.
Premier Houston said he was honoured to thank each recipient on behalf of all Nova Scotians for their extraordinary heroism.
The medal is awarded to civilians and emergency responders who have gone above and beyond in protecting lives or property, and this year’s recipients exemplify that commitment.
From left, Gerrid Hunt, Richard MacPhee, Ryan O’Shea and Scott Rafuse were presented the Nova Scotia Medal of Bravery today, January 15, in Halifax. Photo: Province of Nova Scotia.
In January 2025, Gerrid Hunt rushed into his neighbour’s burning home after learning that people were trapped inside. Crawling through heavy smoke, he located an unconscious man and pulled him to safety. The man, his wife, and one child survived. Tragically, three other children in the home did not, and the Hunt family also lost their own house in the blaze.
The three Cape Breton recipients—MacPhee, O’Shea, and Rafuse—were recognized for their actions on February 14, 2025, when two fellow snowmobilers failed to return from a trip in the Cape Breton Highlands.
Despite deteriorating weather, the men set out to search the trails themselves. They found one missing snowmobiler after a difficult search and helped him get to safety, then joined the large-scale rescue operation and assisted in locating the second man. Provincial officials say their quick response and knowledge of the terrain were critical.
Attorney General and Justice Minister Scott Armstrong praised the recipients for risking their own lives without hesitation, noting the honour reflects their selflessness and courage.
This marks the 15th provincial ceremony recognizing bravery, bringing the total number of Nova Scotians awarded the Medal of Bravery to 59 since the program began in 2008.
