Yellowknife, N.W.T. - Three Hay River residents were honored by the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta and the Lifesaving Society of Alberta and the NWT Monday at a ceremony in Edmonton.

On July 29th of last year, Jordan Groenewegen, Lucie Benoit, and RJ Benoit were instrumental in helping to save three girls from Alberta who became stranded on an inflatable toy on Great Slave Lake.

The CAO of the Lifesaving Society, Barb Kusyanto, said the rescue came to their attention via media reports last year.

"We take that rescue and we have the RCMP and police services help us investigate the facts and if the facts match with the criteria of our rescue awards, then we contact the individuals and check if they agree to being recognized"

The three recipients travelled to Edmonton with family members and friends, including town councilor Kevin Wallington, who said it's great to see Hay River get some recognition.

"In light of some of the things that have happened in Hay River in the past, there has been a lot of negative stories to come out. So anytime we have something positive, it just continues to remind us what a great community we really have and quality people we have living here, and that is something I am thankful for"

The three were awarded the Commendation Citation in recognition of a humanitarian act.
 

CJCD Mix 100 News