The Commissioner of Nunavut, Edna Elias awarded a total of eleven (11) Bravery Awards during a ceremony in Coral Harbour, Nunavut, on March 22.

Four recipients – John Eetuk, John Nakoolak, Moses Nakoolak and Joe Netser – risked their lives in the rescue of a youth stranded on floating sea ice using a 22-foot aluminum boat back in November 2009. These individuals were awarded bravery certificates by the Governor General of Canada and awarded certificates and medals by the Royal Canadian Humane Association.

The other seven (7) recipients were: Joshua Ningeongan, Wesley Siutinuar, Deanna Ell, Kristen Ell and Kidlapik Nakoolak who also risked their lives by swimming in the strong frigid river to rescue a middle-aged couple pinned under an ATV; Elder Annie M. Eetuk rescued two five-year-old children from drowning at high tide, and Richard K. Nakoolak rescued his grandfather by pulling him out of the water when his ATV became immobile in the river.