NZ Red Cross Worker Receives Christchurch Earthquake Award

22 February 2012

New Zealand Red Cross Worker Receives Christchurch Earthquake Award

New Zealand Red Cross emergency management officer Stephen Manson has received a Christchurch Earthquake Award for his actions during and after the September and February earthquakes.

Mr Manson ran the Red Cross operation on the ground during the initial response stage, working with the police, fire, ambulance and council to coordinate the response.

The award, presented by Mayor Bob Parker, was for kindness, service and heroism during and following the Christchurch earthquakes.

Mr Manson was nominated by a member of his community who said he went above and beyond his role with Red Cross.

New Zealand Red Cross International Operations and Emergencies Manager Andrew McKie says he is proud Mr Manson has been recognised.

“Steve exemplifies the sort of person we want in Red Cross. He’s a highly committed, professional and dedicated emergency manager, but he also would be a good guy to be living next door to.

“Staff and volunteers think highly of him and he has been a real asset to New Zealand Red Cross, not only in the response stage but throughout the recovery phase.

“This award is well deserved.”

Mr Manson says he’s humbled to have received the award, and will give it to his children to make up for all the hours they have missed with him over the last 18 months.

New Zealand Red Cross also received an earthquake award today for providing “invaluable support in rescue and recovery” and for “assisting our city in its darkest hour”.

Red Cross has also received a St John Priory Award, one of only 8 organisations to have been honoured.

New Zealand Red Cross is also sharing stories of heroism nominated by our Facebook followers on our website www.redcross.org.nz

ENDS

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