Medford Middle Schoolers Honored For Saving Woman At NH Beach

MEDFORD, MA – Two Andrews Middle School students were recognized Wednesday morning for their rescuing a woman at a New Hampshire beach in August. Jacob Wright and Zach Bertocchi, both 12 years old, ran into the water at Hampton Beach and saved Salisbury resident Maggie Hand after she was knocked over by a wave.

"I’m handicapped and moving quickly is just not possible for me. I started to panic and suddenly, the boys appeared and grabbed my arms to keep my head above the water," Hand said.

With the help of others, the boys were able to safely bring her to shore.

"Without Jacob and Zach, I probably wouldn’t be here," Hand added. "They are great kids and I know will go far in life. They will forever be in my heart."

Medford Mayor Stephanie M. Burke presented the boys with special citations and plaques for their bravery. School officials and both families attended Wednesday's ceremony, and Superintendent Marice Edouard-Vincent praised Wright and Bertocchi as role models for the school and community.

"Helping one another is always a good thing," she said.

Image via Mayor Stephanie M. Burke