Mr. Speaker, I rise today to salute a woman from Marystown in the riding of Random—Burin—St. George's.
On July 14, 2009, while travelling on the Burin Peninsula Highway, Beverly Rose came upon an accident where a van had left the road, flipped on its side and trapped a family of seven inside.
Beverly heard cries for help coming from the vehicle, and as she rushed toward the van she telephoned her husband telling him to call for an ambulance. When she reached the van, there was smoke coming from it and the possibility of fire breaking out. Beverly risked her own safety in order to help the two adults and five children trapped inside.
She climbed on top of the van and will tell people she does not know where she got the strength to pry open the damaged door on the overturned vehicle. As smoke poured out, Beverly helped those trapped climb out. She passed the children to two men who had also arrived on the scene by then. By her actions, she ensured that tragedy was averted.
I was pleased to nominate Beverly for a decoration for bravery and was especially pleased when she was recently presented the Governor General's Certificate of Commendation.
I ask all members of the House to join me in paying tribute to Beverly Rose for her act of bravery.