On October 24, 2025, Surrey Police Service (SPS) hosted the Royal Canadian Humane Association’s (RCHA) “2025 Bravery and Lifesaving Awards” Investiture Ceremony at SPS Headquarters. Twenty-three individuals were recognized for their brave acts and lifesaving efforts in British Columbia and the Yukon over the last year. Family, friends and dignitaries including Acting Surrey Mayor Pardeep Kooner and Surrey - Guildford MLA Garry Begg were in attendance. SPS Chief Constable Norm Lipinski, along with SPS’s Ceremonial Guard, Pipe Major and support staff, assisted the RCHA executive in hosting this important event.

The recognized acts of bravery took place from Vancouver Island to the Kootenays and involved incidents such as water rescues, assistance provided at vehicle collisions and rescues from fire. One deserving recipient “exhibited remarkable courage and presence of mind by immediately intervening in a life-threatening situation, willingly risking life to stabilize and gain control of an out-of-control vehicle following the driver’s sudden medical incapacitation.” Another recipient “demonstrated an incredible act of heroism by entering a structure engulfed in flames not once, but twice, exhibiting bravery and unwavering commitment to execute a critical rescue that successfully extracted and saved the lives of individuals trapped inside the burning home.”

“Acts of bravery and lifesaving efforts made by first responders and members of the public are deserving of recognition,” said SPS Chief Constable Norm Lipinski. “I want to commend all the recipients for their willingness to put themselves in harm’s way to help others. I appreciate the Royal Canadian Humane Association for ensuring that these heroes receive the acknowledgment that they deserve.”

“It is an honour and privilege to be able to recognize individuals such as these who exemplify bravery,” said Orland DeLong, Director for BC and Yukon, Royal Canadian Humane Association. “They do this in order That Others May Live.” 

Orland DeLong
Royal Canadian Humane Association
Phone: 778-215-3677
Email: oldelong@gmail.com