Sarasota County Fire Department Lifeguard presented United States Lifesaving Association National Medal of Valor
Francesco Abbruzzino, The Uncensored Report, LLC
| SARASOTA COUNTY – Sarasota County Fire Department Lifeguard Mariano Martinez was recognized with the National Medal of Valor by the United States Lifesaving Association (USLA) and named Lifeguard of the Year by the Florida Beach Patrol Chiefs Association for his heroic efforts that saved a family caught in a rip current in the Gulf on June 22, 2024, while he was off duty.
The National Medal of Valor is awarded to a lifeguard who voluntarily risks their life to an extraordinary degree in saving or attempting to save another person, or who sacrificed themselves for the benefit of others. It is the highest lifeguard award presented by the USLA. The Lifeguard of the Year award recognizes the top lifeguards in Florida and is voted on by beach patrol chiefs across the state. Martinez received both awards on May 17. “Mariano is an outstanding member of our community who exemplifies selfless service and consistently shows his passion, going above and beyond for our residents and visitors,” said Sarasota County Fire Department Lifeguard Operations Group Chief Rick Hinkson. “We are proud to have him as a member of our team and grateful to the USLA and Florida Beach Patrol Chiefs Association for recognizing him and his efforts.” To learn more about Martinez’s heroic rescue, read the full release from June 2024 here or see below. Watch Martinez describe the rescue in the below video. |
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