Robert Filipchuk, a 16-year member of Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Shilo Emergency Services, was awarded the Order of the Buffalo Hunt, one of Canada’s highest honours, on Oct. 28 for his first responder role at a 2023 fatal collision that killed 17 people. (Photo: Submitted to Shilo Stag News)

Staff Writer
Shilo Stag Media

Robert Filipchuk, a 16-year member of Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Shilo Emergency Services, was awarded the Order of the Buffalo Hunt, one of Canada’s highest honours, on Oct. 28 for his first responder role at a 2023 fatal collision that killed 17 people.

The Order of the Buffalo Hunt is a special award presented to individuals who demonstrate outstanding skills in the areas of leadership, service and community commitment. It was awarded at the discretion of the Premier in a ceremony at the Manitoba Legislature.

Filipchuk was a first responder at a fatal vehicle incident near Carberry on June 15, 2023. The bus carrying 25 people — most of them seniors from Dauphin and the surrounding area — headed to a casino near Carberry for a day trip. It was hit by a semi at a Trans-Canada Highway intersection. All of the 134 first responders who were part of the mass response to the tragedy were given the honour.

“I’ve had to deal with a lot of different situations over that time period. Being a part of the Carberry incident was life-changing in many ways,” Filipchuk said. “It was emotionally, mentally, and physically demanding. My training and support from friends and family helped me get through all the mixed emotions I had.”

“I feel honoured to be receiving this award. I was just doing what I was trained to do,” the emergency responder said.

During the ceremony, Premier Wab Kinew said it is important to express gratitude and support on an ongoing basis.

“Your good deeds do not go unnoticed. What you did that day represents the best of this province.”

For Premier Kinew the occasion marked the first time he bestowed the Order of the Buffalo Hunt.

“I can think of no better group to acknowledge,” the Premier said. “The Province of Manitoba owes you a tremendous debt of gratitude”.