Swampscott Officer's 'Lifesaving Actions' Rescue Swimmer From Hurricane Erin Swells

SWAMPSCOTT, MA — A Swampscott police officer was lauded for his "incredible courage and bravery in a critical situation" in helping save the life of a distressed swimmer at Phillips Beach on Saturday amid the Hurricane Erin high seas.

Swampscott Police Chief Ruben Quesada said on Monday he was recommending Officer Kevin Reen for a formal commendation after he leaped into action while off-duty at the beach on Saturday and rescued a swimmer who was struggling with the 5- to 7-foot waves more than 65 yards offshore.

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Quesada said Reen recognized the distress signs and used his paddleboard to cover the distance from shore amid harsh rip currents and heavy waves and make it to the man, who was clinging to a small surfboard.

Reen then transferred the man to the paddleboard before both men were knocked off the board by another large wave.

"However, Officer Reen recovered his footing on the paddleboard and ensured the swimmer was secured as they continued their journey back to safety," Quesada said. "Officer Reen's decisive actions exemplified the spirit of selflessness by sacrificing his own personal safety for that of another.

"His heroism, determination, and bravery deserve the highest honors of outstanding performance and recognition."

Quesada also praised the coordination between Swampscott police, fire Harbormaster Lt. Bill Waters, Beauport Ambulance and the Phillips Beach lifeguards amid the dangerous conditions throughout the weekend.

"Their collective efforts were vital to a successful outcome that is reflective of extraordinary commitment to community values and spirit," the police chief said.

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(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. X/Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)