Chesterton Tribune

 

 

Porter Police officers John McMahon and Kevin Rospierski receive Medal of Valor

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Two Porter Police officers were awarded the Medal of Valor on Tuesday, for their efforts last summer to save the life of a 14-year-old Illinois boy drowning in Lake Michigan off Indiana Dunes State Park beach.

Honored were Lt. John McMahon and Officer Kevin Rospierski.

The incident occurred on Saturday, Aug. 18, and was the second of two drownings which occurred at Dunes State Park within the space of an hour.

The citation: “During the response to the second drowning incident, Lt. John McMahon observed the drowning victim being rolled in the waves. Without concern for their personal safety, both McMahon and Officer Kevin Rospierski entered the water and pulled the victim to shore, where they assisted with life-saving efforts. Sadly, the rescue efforts were punctuated with tragedy, as the victim did not recover.

“Gentlemen, your spirit of altruism stands boldly.

“You risked your lives in your attempt to save another, while disregarding the imminent threat of Lake Michigan rip currents.

“The Town of Porter Police Department commends you for your actions.

“Your actions personify bravery and selfless service.”

Less than an hour before the 14-year-old boy drowned, a 10-year-old Chicago boy also drowned. Lifeguards were on duty that day but a brisk north wind had made the lake choppy and water restrictions were in place, allowing swimmers to go no further than waist-deep, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources said at the time.

 

Posted 5/24/2019

 
 
 
 

 

 

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