The Alberta Government has recognized a number of individuals, businesses and organizations from Cochrane and the surrounding area as heroes of the 2013 flood.
The province released a list of more than 1,300 nominees for the Alberta Heroes of the Flood recognition program, Feb. 20. Honourees reside throughout Alberta, including individuals from Cochrane, the Stoney Nakoda First Nation, Benchlands, Bragg Creek and Redwood Meadows.
“The flood was more than just a catastrophic event,” said Premier Alison Redford in a media release. “It was an opportunity for all Albertans to come together, to offer support, strength and friendship for those affected by the disaster.”
Albertans were invited to nominate their peers who went above and beyond to help friends, neighbours and strangers recover from June 2013 floods. About 50 nominees were from Cochrane and the surrounding area, said provincial government spokesperson Andrea McDonald.
About 35 honourees live within town boundaries.
Included on the list are the Town of Cochrane, Ghost River Fire Department and Cochrane Fire Services and Emergency Management Team, along with artist Terri Heinrichs who brought her Alberta Flood Rose Project to a local art gallery. Also gracing the list were a number of first responders, like Derek Orr, Jory Jenson and Scott Pletsch.
“It’s always nice to receive a thank you,” said Mac de Beaudrap, emergency services chief and senior manager of protective services with the town. “This recognition is just a really big thank you from the province.”
During the June flood, de Beaudrap set up shop in the town’s emergency operations centre (EOC). Town staff kept busy monitoring river conditions, coordinating efforts and ensuring the appropriate resources were in place at the right time.
“Cochrane was impacted by the flood, but not really as much as our neighbours,” he said. “But we made a point to assist our neighbours in their time of need, whether that be to provide them with food or sandbags.”
All nominees will receive a certification and a letter of appreciation.
According to the Alberta Government, the nominees represent a variety of organizations including 175 nominations for first responders, and 80 nominations for post-secondary institution faculty, students and staff.
A complete list of the nominees can be viewed at alberta.ca/heroes-of-the-flood.cfm.
