Medal of Bravery

• Awarded on: April 28, 2011
• Invested on: February 24, 2012

Ian Joseph Wheeler, M.B., C.D.
Medal of Bravery

On March 12, 2009, civilian search and rescue technician Ian Wheeler saved the only surviving victim of a helicopter crash off the coast of Newfoundland. The helicopter, carrying18 passengers and crew, was en route to an oil platform when it crashed into the Atlantic, leaving the lone survivor severely injured. The man was falling in and out of consciousness as he floated in a field of debris. Mr. Wheeler was lowered from a rescue helicopter and fought two-metre-high waves and the wind action from the rotor blades to reach the victim. The rescue basket was lowered to them, and after many attempts, Mr. Wheeler was able to place the injured man inside. Mr. Wheeler remained un-tethered during the lift as he tended to the hypothermic victim, ensuring he was safe and well secured.