GUNNEDAH-based police officer Senior Constable Kevin Guillaumier risked his own life to pull a man from a burning vehicle in October last year and yesterday received recognition for his bravery.
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According to Constable Guillaumier he was simply the “johnny-on-the-spot” but his actions were outstanding enough to earn a NSW Police Service Deputy Commissioners Commendation at a ceremony held in Tamworth.
A gathering of police, their families and friends heard how Constable Guillaumier pulled the trapped driver from a vehicle on fire after a motor vehicle and a cattle truck collided in Gunnedah on October 2.
Although the flames were intruding into the vehicle Constable Guillaumier leaned in to free the occupant’s legs and physically pull the driver to safety undoubtedly saving his life.
Detective Senior Constable Greg Carnell received a Northern Region Commendation for assisting Constable Guillaumier in the rescue of the man from the burning vehicle.
Constable Carnell’s actions helped save the man’s life as he remained calm and used common sense to deal with the situation.
Senior Constable Rodney Fitzgerald was awarded a Northern Region Certificate of Merit for his actions in coordinating emergency services at the accident.
The officers were three of many police personnel and citizens to receive recognition for outstanding police work and dedicated service at the Oxley Local Area Command Awards presentation.
Inspector Tony Rogers was one of four officers to receive a National Medal for 15 years of diligent police service having joined the service in 1982 and last year being appointed a Duty Officer.
Inspector Brad Tayler, Senior Sergeant Patricia Varley and Senior Constable Kay Dawson were also National Medal recipients.
Seven officers received the First Clasp to the National Medal which is awarded to those who have completed 25 years of service.
They included Senior Sergeant John Davis, Sergeant John Lee, Senior Constable Steve Pepperell, Senior Constable David Sipple, Senior Constable Bill Philp, Senior Constable Dennis Sullings and former Senior Constable Lloyd Jaundrell.
Awards winners:
Northern Region Awards for consistently performing duties in an outstanding manner: Jill Smith, Senior Constable Peter Ryan, Senior Sergeant Patricia Varley and Senior Constable Steve Pepperell.
Certificate of Appreciation: Ambulance officer Colin Rampling, Detective Senior Constable Walker, Sergeant Lou Haslam, Senior Constable Gino Tiberi, Senior Constable Simon Ross, Senior Constable Andrew Pettit, Detective Senior Constable Greg Hunt, Constable Chris Saunders, Mr John Cartwright.
Volunteer in Policing: Mrs Denise Dunstan.