Niagara Leader

New York State Senator Rob Ortt awarded the New York State Senate Liberty Medal to two students from Newfane Central School District, Liam Hedley and Hunter Marcello. The ceremony took place in Lockport, NY, recognizing their quick actions that saved a woman and her dog from drowning last summer in Olcott.

“The Liberty Medal is the highest honor that can be bestowed by a senator,” stated Senator Ortt. “In order to be considered, one must take heroic, extraordinary action in service of others and it’s safe to say Liam and Hunter showcased that when they sprang into action to save this woman’s life.”

The incident occurred on July 3rd of the previous year while Liam and Hunter were fishing at the Newfane Marina. They noticed an overturned pink kayak with a woman signaling for help. The boys acted swiftly by launching a dinghy from a nearby boat company owned by Liam's father. After several attempts, they successfully brought the woman aboard. She was later taken to a hospital where she was expected to recover fully. A family member who had been kayaking with her rescued the dog.

The Newfane School District acknowledged the boys' bravery at a recent board of education meeting where they also met with the superintendent to discuss their experience as well as their passion for fishing and spending time near water.

“Liam and Hunter were at the right place at the right time and they were not afraid to take initiative during a precarious situation - we could have had a very different story if it weren’t for these brave young men, and I thank them for their courage and bravery at a moment’s notice,” concluded Senator Ortt.