Presented at:

Spring Business Symposium 2010

Date presented:

March 20, 2010

Citation (in part)

"While on patrol in support of the Quad city classic Regatta on the Upper Mississippi River between Mile Markers 486 and 488, the crew observed a rowing shell that had sustained significant wave damage and was sinking.  You immediately proceeded to the scene and rescued all five persons onboard from the 56 degree swiftly flowing water.  As a result of the dangerous weather conditions, 35 degree air temperatures, and 15-20 mile per hour winds, the survivors immediately showed signs of hypothermia.  You quickly provided blankets and alertly removed your own gloves to use as improvised socks for  the feet of the survivors.  Once the five survivors were transported safely to shore, you selflessly returned upstream to assist another vessel in distress, providing dewatering equipment that successfully prevented another boat from sinking.  Based upon your recommendation, the regatta was cancelled.  Your crew remained on scene to ensure that the race buoys were collected and all race and sponsor boats were safely out of the water."