Two local senior police officers have been honoured with one of the highest awards given to law enforcement.
Surrey RCMP Officer in Charge Bill Fordy and Delta Deputy Police Chief Lyle Beaudoin received the Order of Merit medal in Ottawa on Tuesday.
The award recognizes a career of exceptional service or distinctive merit by the men and women of Canadian police services.
The primary focus is on exceptional merit, contributions to policing and community development.
“Throughout his long and distinguished career, Bill Fordy’s superior police work and contributions to the community have been exemplary,” Surrey Mayor Dianne Watts said in a release. “His leadership, commitment and progressive approach to policing have enhanced the safety and security of our residents.”
Of Beaudoin, Delta Chief Jim Cessfrod said: "“It is an honour for one of our members to be recognized nationally with this award and it speaks to Deputy Chief Beaudoin’s commitment to public safety and the community of Delta. Deputy Chief Beaudoin continues to serve Delta with the same energy and enthusiasm as when he first started with the department.”"
Fordy has been in charge of Surrey detachment, the largest RCMP detachment in the country, since June of 2012. He received the Order of Merit Tuesday in a ceremony at Rideau Hall presided by David Johnston, Governor General of Canada.
For more information about the Order of Merit, visit http://www.gg.ca/document.aspx?id=14950