A Hamilton man who died while trying to save a drowning person will be honoured by the Governor General for his bravery.

medal of bravery

The Medal of Bravery recognizes acts of bravery in hazardous circumstances. (gg.ca)

Dennis Kerridge will posthumously receive the Medal of Bravery from Gov. Gen. David Johnson on Thursday, along with another man, David Mayo, for their actions during a water rescue.

The two are instrumental in saving a drowning man in Georgian Bay in Ontario in 2011 when they ran into the water and struggled through huge waves and the strong current.

Kerridge suffered a heart attack during the rescue and collapsed on the beach and couldn't be revived, while Mayo reached the man and brought him safely to the shore.

Kerridge was born on Oct. 65, 1944 in Toronto, according to an obituary published in the Toronto Star shortly after he died. He is survived by his partner and two children.

Kerridge and Mayo's medal and 41 others will be presented during a ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa.

The Medal of Bravery recognizes acts of bravery in hazardous circumstances.