Jordan Crugnale receives National Emergency Medal

JORDAN Crugnale, State member for Bass was awarded a National Emergency Medal alongside five other members from the Pound Creek Fire Brigade. 
Jordan is a member of the brigade and served on strike teams at Swift Creek and Sarsfield during the 2019-2020 fires. 
While an official presentation ceremony was held in April for the members, Jordan was unable to make it.
At their last meeting last Tuesday night, Ivan Smith, Pound Creek Brigade Captain, invited a CFA Commander to their meeting to present the medal to Jordan.
The National Emergency Medal is awarded to persons who rendered sustained or significant service during nationally significant emergencies in Australia.
The Pound Creek Fire Brigade is a small, tight knit and very active brigade who are committed to serving. 
They have over 30 active members who will put their hand up for strike teams in Victoria and interstate. 
“From the day I joined the brigade, the first female actually, I have always felt supported, have learnt so much from our very experienced members and this applies also on the fire ground. I love my brigade,” Jordan said.
“That 19/20 fire season across the country was beyond devastating- we saw 33 lives lost, thousands of houses razed, hectares upon hectares scorched, fauna perished in their billions.
We were at Swifts Creek, Sarsfield, Reedy Flat and Anglers Rest,” Jordan recounts. 
“We were up at Anglers Rest the day after Bill Slade was killed by a falling tree, it was solemn, surreal and we couldn’t believe it - his family, friends, colleagues and all at Parks Victoria would of course be absolutely grief stricken and shocked. Bill was so loved, highly respected, a mentor to many and his skills and expertise immeasurable.
“It’s kind of weird to get medal for just doing your duty as a citizen. This is for Bill, my brigade, everyone that put their hand up and everyone affected.”