Thai Cave Rescuers Recognized for Bravery

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Category: Top Stories

Listening

Unlocking Word Meanings

Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

  1. medic / ˈmɛdɪk / (n) – someone who gives medical assistance
    Example:

    Medics immediately came to help the man who suffered a heart attack at the mall.


  2. distinguished / dɪˈstɪŋ.ɡwɪʃt / (adj) – famous because of an outstanding achievement
    Example:

    He is a distinguished firefighter who helped rescue hundreds of people from a tragedy.


  3. crucial / ˈkruːʃəl / (adj) – very important
    Example:

    The ability to think and act fast is crucial for people in the medical field.


  4. confer /  kənˈfɝː / (v) – to give something good or beneficial to someone
    Example:

    The committee conferred an award on him for his achievement in his field.


  5. in the face of (something) / ɪn ðə feɪs ʌv / (idiom) – despite the presence of something
    Example:

    Their team pushed through with the mission in the face of danger, and they were able to save the children during the calamity.


Article

Read the text below.

Two Australian medics have received an award for helping rescue a Thai football team trapped in a cave.


On Australia Day this year, Dr. Richard Harris and Dr. Craig Challen received the Australian of the Year award. The award is given to distinguished Australians who served as role models for others. Dr. Harris and Dr. Challen were honored for their participation in the rescue of 12 athletes and their team coach from a Thai cave last year.


Both medics greatly contributed in rescuing the team. Dr. Harris put his life at risk to reach the cave where the team was trapped. He also gave the boys and their coach sedatives to calm them down before they were led out of the cave through tunnels. He reportedly stayed in the cave until everyone was safely evacuated. Dr. Challen, on the other hand, was one of the people who played a crucial role in evacuating the team members one at a time through the cave tunnels.


In response to the recognition he received, Dr. Harris said that he wants the award to serve as an inspiration for children to explore more. He hopes that children would see exploring their surroundings as a way of challenging themselves.


Aside from being named Australian of the Year, the two men have also been conferred the Star of Courage and the Medal of the Order of Australia. The Star of Courage is awarded to people who have demonstrated exceptional bravery in the face of danger. On the other hand, the Medal of the Order of Australia is given to those who have done outstanding service.


Viewpoint Discussion

Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.

Discussion A

• What skills and qualities do you think rescuers need to succeed in a dangerous rescue mission? Explain.
• Aside from medals or awards of recognition, what other rewards do you think the medics should receive (e.g. monetary incentives)? Discuss.

Discussion B

• What qualities do you think role models should have? Discuss.
• Do you know anyone who possesses these qualities? Explain.