July 22nd, 2016
Toronto, ON, 09 June 2016 – Commissionaires security guard, Chief Warrant Officer Rodney McAlpine, was presented with the 2016 Security Guard of the Year award by the Association of Professional Security Agencies at a ceremony in Toronto.
Rodney McAlpine, a guard employed by Commissionaires Great Lakes, was recognized for his bravery and quick thinking while on duty at the Keele Corrections Centre. On May 14, 2015, McAlpine, whose responsibilities at the site include overseeing offenders, was instrumental in ending a stabbing incident between residents. McAlpine witnessed the stabbing, ordered the offender to drop his weapon, immediately instructed another resident on how to assist the victim, and ensured other residents went safely back to their rooms. Police were called and the offender was taken into custody. The victim received more than 27 stab wounds and recovered from his injuries.
“My military training kicked in and I did my best to remain calm but firm with everyone and make sure the situation was controlled without any escalation,” said McAlpine. “It’s an honour to be recognized for performing my duty.”
McAlpine, a 62-year-old veteran, served with the Canadian Air Force and joined Commissionaires in 2007. He has been employed as a security guard at the Keele Corrections Centre since 2013.
“We are extremely proud that Rodney has been recognized by APSA for his extraordinary leadership in a very dangerous situation,” said Tom Prins, CEO, Commissionaires CGL. “At Commissionaires, our mandate is to provide meaningful employment for veterans. We see their loyalty, training and dedication demonstrated every day,” said Prins.