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Thursday, March 28, 2024

Coast Guard Presents Public Service Commendation Award to Good Samaritans

On February 9, 2021, a recreational vessel 45 miles east of Cape Charles caught fire, forcing the two persons aboard into the water.

Capt. Timothy Eason, on behalf of Rear Adm. Laura Dickey, Coast Guard District Five Commander, presented the Coast Guard Public Service Commendation Award to three crewmembers from the motor vessel Weekend Warrior Monday. The three men were recognized for their heroic efforts rescuing two individuals from a vessel fire last February.

The awards were presented to Mark Clemens, Shawn Shapiro Sr., and Shawn Shapiro Jr. at the 16th Annual Steven Todd Dooley Search and Rescue Forum, hosted by the Port of Virginia and Coast Guard Sector Virginia at The Landing at Hampton Marina Hotel.

“The standing ovation from over 130 first responders from 35 different Fire, Police and Emergency Management departments within the Hampton Roads region warmed my heart, and affirmed the strong sense of public safety and unity of effort this region is known for,” said Capt. Samson Stevens, commander of Coast Guard Sector Virginia. “Most importantly, we recognized the everyday heroes – the mariners – who live and operate in our Tidewater region. Our waterways are safer because of good Samaritans like Mr. Shapiro, Sr., Mr. Shapiro, Jr., and Mr. Clemens.”

On February 9, 2021, a recreational vessel 45 miles east of Cape Charles caught fire, forcing the two persons aboard into the water. The men were badly burned and hypothermic in the fifty degree water while hanging on to their rapidly sinking vessel. The motor vessel Weekend Warrior quickly diverted after noticing smoke on the horizon and was the first vessel on scene.

The men were pulled from the water moments before their vessel sank and transported to the Coast Guard Cutter Dependable where they received first aid. The two men were later medevaced to Norfolk General Hospital by a Coast Guard helicopter.

The crew aboard the Weekend Warrior were applauded for their dedication and judgment, noting that this selfless action could have very likely prevented the loss of two lives.

Read more at USCG

Coast Guard Presents Public Service Commendation Award to Good Samaritans Homeland Security Today
Homeland Security Today
The Government Technology & Services Coalition's Homeland Security Today (HSToday) is the premier news and information resource for the homeland security community, dedicated to elevating the discussions and insights that can support a safe and secure nation. A non-profit magazine and media platform, HSToday provides readers with the whole story, placing facts and comments in context to inform debate and drive realistic solutions to some of the nation’s most vexing security challenges.
Homeland Security Today
Homeland Security Todayhttp://www.hstoday.us
The Government Technology & Services Coalition's Homeland Security Today (HSToday) is the premier news and information resource for the homeland security community, dedicated to elevating the discussions and insights that can support a safe and secure nation. A non-profit magazine and media platform, HSToday provides readers with the whole story, placing facts and comments in context to inform debate and drive realistic solutions to some of the nation’s most vexing security challenges.

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