Man Honored For Saving Woman From Paint Creek

Two dozen ordinary citizens were honored on Tuesday afternoon for their extraordinary actions across Oakland County last year.

Sheriff Michael Bouchard presented citizen hero awards during a ceremony at the sheriff's office in Pontiac. 

Here's a look at some of the recipients:

Bradley Hassberger, Rochester Hills

Hassberger was honored for the 

"On October 24, 2011 while talking with a friend on the bridge that goes over Paint Creek, he saw a woman having trouble in the water," said Undersheriff Mike McCabe. "He directed his friend to call 911 and then immediately and selflessly went down the embankment, entered the water and pulled the woman to safety. He remained with her and provided first aid until emergency assistance arrived on the scene."

"Thanks to his rapid response, he prevented the woman from drowning."

Mary Balcom, Lake Orion

Balcom was applauded for the assistance she provided to a victim involved in a personal injury accident in Oakland Townshiop on July 15.

The incident involved a mail truck and a motorcycle. 

"After witnessing the accident, she immediately stopped at the scene to assist those who were involved," said McCabe. "When she found that the motorcycle driver was severely injured she provided first aid and comfort until emergency personnel arrived."

Derek Linville, Lake Orion

Linville was honored for the assistance he provided another motorist on July 8 in Oxford Township. 

"While on lunch break, Derek stopped to assist another motorist who had a flat tire," McCabe said. "This individual was having difficulty changing his tire and did not have anyone in the area he could call for assistance. He took the time to change the stranded motorist tire and when he offered Derek compensation he declined.

"He is to be commended for his actions and the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office appreciates his assistance."