Citation
On June 21, 1994, Cpl Merriam, then Sapper, was involved in a mine-clearing operation near Kakma, Croatia, when two anti-personnel mines suddenly detonated, seriously wounding three soldiers. Cpl Merriam quickly proceeded to clear a path to his injured colleagues using a mine detector, with no guarantee that it would detect all types of mines. Upon reaching the most seriously wounded soldier, he began cardio-pulmonary resuscitation. He continued to provide first aid as the victims were evacuated from the minefield. The soldier that Cpl Merriam tried so hard to save ultimately died of his wounds.
Le 21 juin 1994, le cpl Merriam, alors sapeur, participait à une opération de déminage près de Kakma, en Croatie, lorsque deux mines antipersonnel éclatèrent soudain, blessant grièvement trois soldats. Le cpl Merriam n'a pas hésité à se frayer un chemin jusqu'à ses collègues blessés à l'aide d'un détecteur de mines en sachant qu'il ne repérerait pas nécessairement tous les types de mines. Ayant atteint le soldat le plus gravement blessé, il entreprit de le ranimer. Il continua à lui prodiguer les premiers soins pendant l'évacuation des victimes. Le soldat que le cpl Merriam a mis tellement d'énergie à sauver a finalement succombé à ses blessures.
Some Background
"On June 21, 1994, Leading Seaman Birks, Corporal King and Private Sinclair were supporting a mine-clearing operation near Kakma, Croatia, when two anti-personnel mines suddenly detonated, seriously wounding three soldiers. Leading Seaman Birks, Corporal King and Private Sinclair entered the minefield after it had been roughly cleared by a colleague to assist in the rescue of the victims. Their actions, despite the difficult circumstances, were in the very best traditions of the Canadian Forces." These three were awarded a Mention in Dispatches for their efforts.
Corporal Stacy Vance MERRIAM, MB, received the Medal of Bravery for clearing the path and providing assistance.
Sergeant Paul McMILLAN, MSM, received the Meritorious Service Medal for directing the rescue operation despite being injured