2021-03-03

Lunenburg resident receives Meritorious Service Decoration

Will Brooks of Lunenburg is a recipient of a civilian Meritorious Service Decoration for his role in establishing a registered Canadian charity that provides support for families of firefighters who have died in the line of duty.

The decoration is among the highest Canadian distinctions that can be awarded. The Governor General's office announced the recognition February 25.

Brooks shares the honour with two other founders of the Canadian Fallen Firefighters Foundation who are from outside of Nova Scotia. The foundation, which is based in Ottawa, is behind the Canadian Firefighters Memorial ceremony held annually in Ottawa.

The foundation also subsidizes transportation and accommodation to families of firefighters honoured at the ceremony, and provides post-secondary financial support to spouses and children of the fallen.

Brooks, who declined to be interviewed for this story, served as the foundation's first president, a role that he filled from its incorporation in the early 2000s to 2007, when plans were finalized for the construction of the memorial, which was unveiled in September 2012.

In a text message to LighthouseNOW, Brooks said he was "honoured," but felt shy about the attention. He was pleased to learn "that my co-founders are receiving their due."

A retired psychologist, Brooks spent most of his life involved in firefighting, including as a fireman himself in Colchester County. He also did photography and presentations about firefighting in various parts of the world, and was a key organizer in introducing a vital critical incident stress debriefing program in Nova Scotia.

Brooks received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012, which recognizes those who have made a significant contribution to a province, territory, region or community within the country or made an achievement abroad that brings recognition to Canada.

In 2015, LighthouseNOW profiled his Lorne Street Fire Company passion, where Brooks's collection of replica fire engines, gear and images have been on display in Lunenburg since 2011.

The Meritorious Service Decorations go to those "who have performed a deed or an activity in a highly professional manner, or at a very high standard that brings benefit or honour to Canada," the statement released by the Governor General's office indicated. "Such actions can range from advocacy initiatives and health care services to humanitarian efforts and contributions to the arts," the statement read.