University of Wisconsin Law School student Brendan P. Matthews has been presented with the Citizen’s Distinguished Service Award from the Sheboygan Police Department for saving the life of a child in Lake Michigan in August 2008.

Matthews was an intern in the Law School’s Prosecution Project, riding along with a Sheboygan policeman, when a 911 call reported a swimmer in distress in the lake. A nine-year-old child had floated out past the swim area on an inner tube, and because of strong winds was unable to get back to shore.

A statement from the Sheboygan Police Department continues:

“The Coast Guard and Fire Department paramedics were notified, and were responding as police personnel arrived.  Officer Brian Bastil and his citizen ride-along, Brendan Matthews, were first on the scene, and quickly assessed the situation. The child had fallen off her “floaty,” and was struggling to swim safely to shore. Realizing that the situation was rapidly deteriorating, Brendan Matthews took it upon himself to enter the water and swim out to the child, rescuing her and returning her to shore. As a result, although cold and exhausted, the child did not suffer any lasting injury.

“It is truly the mark of a hero when someone places the life of another over their own, despite obvious risks to their own safety. For aiding Officer Bastil and the Sheboygan Police Department during a critical incident, distinguishing himself by performing a selfless act of bravery involving personal risk of safety in order to aid others, Brendan Matthews is presented the Citizen’s Distinguished Service Award.”

 

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