FL Lifeguard Who Rescued 9 From Rip Current Honored By State, National Organizations

SARASOTA, FL — A Sarasota County lifeguard was honored nationally and statewide for rescuing nine people caught in a rip current at Lido Beach last year.

Mariano Martinez was recognized with the National Medal of Valor by the United States Lifesaving Association and was also named Lifeguard of the Year by the Florida Beach Patrol Chiefs Association, the county said in a news release.

He was off-duty when he saved the family caught in a rip current in the gulf on June 22 last year.

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The National Medal of Valor, awarded to a lifeguard who voluntarily risks their life to an extraordinary degree in saving or attempting to save another person, or who sacrificed themselves for the benefit of others, is the highest lifeguard award presented by the USLA, the county said.

The Lifeguard of the Year award recognizes the top lifeguards in Florida and is voted on by beach patrol chiefs across the state.

Martinez received both awards on May 17.

“Mariano is an outstanding member of our community who exemplifies selfless service and consistently shows his passion, going above and beyond for our residents and visitors,” Sarasota County Fire Department Lifeguard Operations Group Chief Rick Hinkson said. “We are proud to have him as a member of our team and grateful to the USLA and Florida Beach Patrol Chiefs Association for recognizing him and his efforts.”

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