Port Coquitlam, BC – June 11, 2026… Port Coquitlam Fire & Emergency Services today honoured four community members at a Community Hero Challenge Coin Presentation Ceremony held at the department's training centre. The recipients were recognized for acts of courage and compassion that made a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
The Port Coquitlam Fire & Emergency Services Community Hero Challenge Coin is not presented lightly. Reserved for individuals who demonstrate exceptional service, courage, or compassion, the coin is given sparingly and with great meaning to new members of the fire department, community heroes, and others whose actions reflect the values the department holds dear.
On one side of the coin is the image of Terry Fox, a Port Coquitlam hometown hero whose legacy of determination, selflessness, and hope continues to inspire communities around the world. The design was made possible with the support and approval of the Fox family, a testament to the shared values of courage and community that the coin represents.
"Terry Fox is one of Port Coquitlam's most cherished figures, not only here at home but across Canada and around the world. His image on this coin is a reminder of what one person's courage and determination can mean for all of us,” said Mayor Brad West. “The individuals we recognized today answered that call in their own way, by stepping forward without hesitation when someone needed help. That is what community looks like, and it is something this city is incredibly proud of."
2026 Recipients
Matt Warburton and Steve Middleton — June 18, 2025
On June 18, 2025, Matt Warburton and Steve Middleton were driving along Coast Meridian Road when they came across a man who had collapsed on a rooftop where he had been working. Steve helped Matt get onto the roof, then called 9-1-1 and stayed with the patient's wife to provide support while Matt climbed up and began performing CPR, sustaining those efforts until fire crews arrived. Their quick thinking and composure under pressure made a critical difference.
Devna Sunil Nambeesan — September 19, 2025
On September 19, 2025, Devna was passing by Port Coquitlam City Hall when she came across a woman who had collapsed and was unresponsive. She stepped forward immediately and began performing CPR, continuing those efforts until fire crews arrived on scene. Thanks to her courageous and selfless response, the woman survived.
Cole Rimek — May 7, 2026
On May 7, 2026, City of Port Coquitlam Public Works member Cole Rimek was among the first on scene at a structure fire at a 10-unit residential building at 2209 Atkins Avenue. Without hesitation, he went door to door to alert occupants, called in the fire, and assisted with the evacuation before fire crews arrived. The building was non-sprinklered and equipped only with a local alarm system, making those first critical minutes essential. His presence of mind and immediate action played a significant role in ensuring all occupants were safely evacuated.
"The individuals we recognized today did not have to act, but they did. In moments of crisis, they chose courage over hesitation and put someone else's safety before their own,” said Fire Chief Blake Clarkson. “That is exactly the spirit this coin is meant to honour, and we are proud to recognize each of them on behalf of Port Coquitlam Fire & Emergency Services."
For more information, visit portcoquitlam.ca/communityhero.
- 30 -
