Major Roy Langer, divisional director of emergency and disaster services for the Alberta and Northern Territories Division, was presented with a medal of honour from the town of Slave Lake, Alta., by Mayor Karina Pillay-Kinnee in December. He was nominated by the RCMP for his efforts and services after the devastating wildfire that swept through the town in May 2011.

“Major Roy Langer attended the Slave Lake wildfires in support of the Slave Lake Fire Department, RCMP, the mayor and council of Slave Lake, the municipal district and other first responders where he conducted CISM (Critical Incident Stress Management) debriefings with the various groups, as well as many one-on-one interventions,” says Bob Harper, chaplain for the RCMP “K” Division. “Major Langer continued to help others long after the citizens of Slave Lake returned home. In addition, Major Langer co-ordinated The Salvation Army Divisional Emergency and Disaster Services who were immediately present after the Sunday of the fires.

“The Salvation Army gave great support and comfort to the first responders and the people of Slave Lake,” Harper continues. “Their presence was invaluable. Major Langer provided the presence and resources that enabled people to survive and thrive.”