SEATTLE – Rear Adm. Keith A. Taylor, 13th Coast Guard District commander, presented the Certificate of Valor to Master Sgt. Anton Engelmann, U.S. Army 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne), at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., Friday.
Englemann received the award for his heroic efforts that assisted in the rescue of a man from the Nisqually River in Mt. Ranier National Park, Wash., on June 5, 2010.
Englemann and his family were leaving the park following a visit when they noticed a man in the road waving frantically for help. After pulling over, Englemann noticed a partially submerged car (with a man trapped inside) in the frigid Nisqually River.
Englemann rigged a rope, which allowed him to enter the water safely and reach the vehicle. After entering through the broken rear window, he began attempts to remove the trapped man from the front passenger seat.
After several unsuccessful attempts, Englemann focused on calming the passenger until the park ranger arrived. The parker ranger, who was wearing a dry suit, managed to cut the passenger free from his seatbelt and with Englemann’s assistance, bring him safely to shore.
Englemann’s planning and foresight allowed for the successful rescue. His actions reflect the highest traditions of the humanitarian service.
The Certificate of Valor is awarded to citizens of the United States, military or civilian, who rescues, or endeavors to rescue any other person from drowning, shipwreck, or other peril of water.
