A medical assistant with the Canadian Airborne Regiment in Somalia, Cpl. Charette defused a violent demonstration of armed townspeople at the entrance to the Belet-Wen Hospital on February 17, 1993. Cpl. Charette was working alone when a crowd advanced towards the gates of the hospital. Shots were fired and a grenade exploded while Cpl. Charette called for back-up. Despite the growing chaos, Cpl. Charette continued to transmit situation reports while he screened and disarmed the demonstrators. His efforts prevented further destruction of the hospital and the possible deaths of many people.