Greenwich Lifeguards Honored For Lifesaving Efforts

Press release from the Town of Greenwich:

September 4, 2020

For immediate release: August 21, 2020 First Selectman Fred Camillo recognized the heroic efforts of a team of lifeguards assigned to Island Beach. On July 19, a Riverside couple decided to pack a lunch and take the ferry to Island Beach for a relaxing Sunday afternoon. While at the beach, the gentleman entered the water. He apparently lost his balance and fell into the water. Unable to right himself, the current rapidly carried him towards the pier.

The waves repeatedly pushed him into the pier pilings. Lifeguard Mike Dorrian sprang into action, along with lifeguard Sean Kieran. They pulled the man out of the water and treated his cuts and bruises. The man declined their offer to be brought to shore for further medical evaluation. Meanwhile, Lifeguard Mitchell Grimes comforted the man's distraught wife who witnessed the frightful situation unfold.

In a letter to Mr. Camillo, as well as to Parks & Recreation Director Joe Siciliano and Marine & Facility Operations Superintendent Brian Kerzner, the couple wrote, "Because of their alertness as to what was going on in the water that day, a near drowning was avoided. We feel blessed that they were doing their job that day."

In a beachside ceremony on Friday, August 21, Mr. Camillo presented each lifeguard with a Certificate of Special Recognition to commend their efforts.

"The actions of Mike, Sean and Mitchell exemplify the dedication of our Town employees who willingly put their lives on the line every day for the health and safety of our residents," Mr. Camillo said.

For media inquiries, contact Executive Assistant to the First Selectman Barbara Heins
at barbara.heins@greenwichct.org.

"The Town of Greenwich is Dedicated to Diversity and Equal Employment Opportunity"

This press release was produced by the Town of Greenwich. The views expressed here are the author's own.