Star of Courage

• Awarded on: July 3, 1973
• Invested on: August 02, 1973

Melvin Douglas Paradis, S.C.
Star of Courage

On November 4, 1971, Melvin Douglas Paradis rescued an infant from a blazing cottage. The mother who was out on an errand had left the baby alone in the building with all doors locked. Melvin Paradis, a neighbour, saw some smoke and went to investigate. He broke open a door but not hearing any sound he assumed the building was vacant. The mother returned shouting that her child was inside and attempted to enter the building, but was forced back by the flames. Breaking a side window Mr. Paradis gained entrance and made his way with great difficulty through the smoke until he reached the baby. He passed the infant out through the window and then effected his escape. Had it not been for his courageous action the baby would have perished.