PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Governor Donald L. Carcieri and Secretary of State A. Ralph Mollis today honored four local heroes with the state’s highest award for lifesaving for their roles rescuing people from death in separate incidents in Exeter, Johnston, Lincoln and Warwick
“I often visit schools to speak with students about the importance of public service. I emphasize that there are many ways to have an impact on people’s lives,” Mollis said. “There are many ways to describe public service. Here are four impressive examples of how even everyday Rhode Islanders can make a dramatic difference.”
The State Lifesaving Medal was created under state law to recognize the heroism of a firefighter, volunteer firefighter, police officer or other citizen who saves human life in Rhode Island. The honor is given annually.
"Some people believe that we live in a time in which it is hard to find real heroes," said the Governor. "As citizens of the Ocean State where the motto is 'hope,' we know that's not the case, and you only have to look at the brave people we honor today to see that we have real heroes among us. Today we honor 4 Rhode Islanders whose selfless actions saved lives. They've exhibited great courage and a strong devotion to assisting those in need, and make us proud to call Rhode Island home."
Lime Rock Fire District Firefighter Joseph Amaral dove into Scott’s Pond and swam more than 80 feet to pull a drowning 15-year-old boy to the shore of the Lincoln pond on June 10, 2008. He was nominated by Lime Rock Fire Chief Frank Sylvester.
Narragansett Officer Desiree Dugan was off-duty in Exeter on June 25 when she saw a vehicle veer off Route 102, flip over and land on its roof in several feet of water. She pulled over, directed a passing motorist to call 911 and plunged into the swampy water to pull the driver to safety.
Johnston Pltm. Phil Viens carried a wheelchair-bound, elderly woman through dense smoke out of her burning home in Johnston on May 3. Viens barely made it to the doorway with Lucia Sciarra when oxygen tanks in the woman’s bedroom exploded. He was nominated by Johnston Police Chief Richard Tamburini.
Melissa Paiva of Scituate pulled an injured woman out of a burning car seconds before it was completely engulfed in flames following a one-car crash in Warwick on Oct. 28, 2008.
Paiva was driving on Centerville Road when she saw Tiffany Cuhna’s car strike a light pole after veering off the road. She pulled over and rushed to Cunha’s vehicle. As smoke filled the car, Paiva pulled the Cuhna to safety through the vehicle’s backseat, despite injuries that made it impossible for her to move her legs. Warwick Police Col. Steven McCartney lauded Paiva for her heroism.
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