Governor General of Canada Michaëlle Jean (l.) greets L-146 member Mack Walker and his family after presenting him with the Canadian Medal of Bravery.
Rescue efforts at Suncor Refinery earn Boilermaker national recognition
LOCAL 146 MEMBER Mackenzie (Mack) Walker received the Canadian Medal of Bravery from the Honourable Michaëlle Jean, governor general of Canada, at a ceremony June 19 in Ottawa.
Walker was recognized for his heroic efforts at the Suncor Refinery on August 2, 2006. Putting his own life at risk, Walker initiated rescue efforts to save two carpenter scaffolders who were stuck on a swing stage at the top end of a boiler.
Recognizing that his fellow tradesmen’s lives were at risk, Mack began rescue efforts to bring the men to safety. While both were rescued from the swing stage, one passed away later from his injuries.
“Walker’s extraordinary display of professionalism and selfless bravery is an example of the leadership and brotherhood we should all hope to achieve,” said L-146 BM-ST Warren Fraleigh. “We are all proud and honoured to have Mack working with us, and hope his story will inspire us all to ‘be our brother’s keeper.’”
Local 146 also recognized Walker’s rescue efforts at the lodge’s annual general meeting in November.
