Fallen Paramedics Memorial unveiled in British Columbia

VICTORIA, British Columbia — A memorial honoring paramedics who died in the line of duty was unveiled in British Columbia.

The Fallen Paramedics Memorial was presented on the south lawn of the legislature, where it joins the law enforcement and fire service memorials. Funded by the BC Emergency Health Services and the Ambulance Paramedics of BC (CUPE 873), the granite monument serves as a tangible reminder of the ultimate sacrifice paid by paramedics who dedicate themselves to helping others.

“Paramedics make life and death decisions every day. This memorial is a sad but important reminder of the real hazards we face as we respond to medical emergencies throughout the province,” said Ambulance Paramedics Union of BC (CUPE 873) President Bronwyn Barter.

The granite monument is engraved with the names of the 10 men and women who have died in the line of duty since the 1974 inception of the BC Ambulance Service (BCAS).

“I hope this memorial provides some comfort to the families of the 10 paramedics who died in the line of duty in BC.” said Health Minister Terry Lake. “We honour these heroic men and women, and their selfless contributions are never forgotten.”

The fallen paramedics

• Ivan Polivka died in the line of duty on October 19, 2010.
• Jo-Ann Fuller died in the line of duty on October 19, 2010.
• Michael Gray died in the line of duty on April 8, 2008.
• Kim Weitzel died in the line of duty on May 17, 2006.
• Shawn Currier died in the line of duty on May 17, 2006.
• Andreas (Andy) Goedicke died in the line of duty on January 11, 1995.
• Wendy Thompson died in the line of duty on January 11, 1995.
• Carol Schlamp died in the line of duty on January 26, 1993.
• Theresa Bond died in the line of duty on May 4, 1990.
• Tony Sunderland died in the line of duty on June 4, 1988.