VFW honors firefighters for water rescue

Del City firefighters were recognized by the VFW for a recent high-water rescue. Photo provided

By Jeff Harrison
Midwest City Beacon

Del City firefighters were recognized for their lifesaving efforts during a water rescue last month.

The VFW Post 9969 presented the fire department’s red shift with the VFW National Lifesaving Award during the July 15 city council meeting.

On June 2, firefighters were called to SE 18 St. and Vickie Dr. on a report of multiple people that were trapped in Crutcho Creek. Crews searched the area and found three people who were trapped in the floodwaters. They were hanging onto tree branches to avoid being swept further downstream.

Firefighters pulled the three people from the waters. All three suffered only minor injuries.

The red shift included Cpt. Steve Davis, Cpt. Sonny Marti, Sgt. Darren Appleby, Sgt. Tyler Payne, Cpl. Kaleb Gandy, Cpl. Dylan Velasquez, Cpl. McKay Rorabaugh and Firefighter Cord Belshe.