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Ponoka officer receives Medal of Bravery

Ponoka RCMP Const. Doug Philip received the Medal of Bravery Friday.
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Ponoka RCMP Const. Doug Philip accepts a Medal of Bravery from the Governor General David Johnston Friday

Ponoka RCMP Const. Doug Philip received the Medal of Bravery Friday, May 1 from the Governor General David Johnston for coming into the line of fire in Grande Prairie in 2011.

Philip was one of four RCMP officers who prevented the infamous William Bicknell, an escaped convict who held officers and citizens hostage in his desire for freedom, from evading police. The day is not easily forgotten.

“On March 19, 2011 he (Bicknell) drove into our area after leaving a farm and holding up a lady,” said Philip.

“He started shooting at us and we returned fire, wounding him,” added Philip.

All four officers’ names were submitted for recognition for medals and last weekend was an opportunity for Philip to receive the award and meet with his fellow officers.

The event was life-changing and Philip said he and Cpl. Adam Palmer (then a constable) and Constables Clifford Leavitt and James Guthrie have stayed close since. They get together about once a year.

“I think we’re closer because of that event,” said Philip.

While he is honoured to receive the award, Philip feels it is something that he or any other Mountie would have done. When Bicknell started shooting, Philip said training and adrenaline kicked in and they had a job to do: keep Bicknell away from the public.

“It was an honour to receive the medal from the Governor General,” said Philip. “It is also an honour to protect the people of the community and their rights and freedoms from the individuals who choose to break the law.”