In 1948 a young Montreal Air Cadet named John Lowe became famous when he single-handedly and at great personal risk saved seven people from drowning. John's heroism and quick action came to the attention of National Defence Headquarters and he was named as first winner of the Cadet Award for Bravery which had just been announced by Defence Minister Brooke Claxton. John did not receive his award immediately, since design work on the medal was in progress at the time.

One day last spring, Cadet F/Sgt John Lowe of No. 21 (Mount Royal) Squadron stood at attention before one of the world's greatest airmen and received his well-earned hero's medal. At a dinner sponsored by the Air Force Veterans Association the famous Lord Trenchard, first Marshal of the Royal Air Force, pinned the bravery medal on F/Sgt Lowe's tunic. For all present, it was a reminder that seven grateful people owed their lives to the quick thinking, alert action and quiet heroism of this modest young Air Cadet.