Our Community Hero Contest Winner :
Flagler County Fire Rescue Lieutenant Andrew Hardesty
By Jeanne Coates
The definition of a hero is a person who is admired for great or brave acts or fine qualities . Lacy Page nominated Andrew Hardesty , a lieutenant with 14 years ’ experience with Flagler County Fire Rescue and seven years with North Lauderdale Fire Rescue . In her nomination , Lacy mentioned that Lt . Hardesty had saved a man from drowning in September . I was anxious to hear more . Lt . Hardesty was kind enough to give us this recollection :
“ The incident in September was a straightforward call involving a beachgoer who presumably was a good swimmer but was unaware how strong a rip current can become . Here in Florida , rip currents have become one of the most common causes of nearshore drownings . Being an active member of the Flagler County Marine Rescue division we train for this eventuality and when our station received this call each member knew their part . Even though the team and the members were activated , the victim ’ s outcome was positive due to the kindness of strangers and their willingness to come to the aid of the victim prior to our arrival . Once on scene , I noticed the victim and bystander who was helping keep the victim calm and head above water until further assistance could be given . I was first to enter the water with a floatation device , and shortly behind me was my backup swimmer who was able to assist the victim and me to shore without further complications . The victim was exhausted once back to shore but was very thankful to be there . Our medical rescue crew on scene was able to monitor the victim ’ s vital signs . He adamantly refused transport to the hospital but was extremely thankful for all the help .”
We also asked Lt . Hardesty if he considers himself a hero . He said , “ I honestly do not consider myself a hero . I consider myself a compassionate human being who finds pleasure in serving the people around him and his community . I chose this career to be able to do exactly that . I am delighted that my passion for this position has awarded me the title of hero , but it is my genuine pleasure to be able to serve my community and the people inside of it .”
4 | FLAGLER PARENT M A G A Z I N E