'Medal Of Valor' Awarded To LBI Lifeguard For Fishermen Rescue

BARNEGAT LIGHT, NJ — A member of the Barnegat Light Beach Patrol was awarded a Medal of Valor by the U.S. Lifesaving Association (USLA) for risking his life and swimming to a jetty in rough surf to rescue two trapped fishermen.

Hugh Shields received the award for his actions on Aug. 18, 2024, USLA said.

That evening, heavy surf and a full-moon flood tide trapped two fishermen on the signal tower at the end of the jetty, waves crashing below.

"Responding with the Barnegat Light Volunteer Fire Company Water Rescue Team, Shields deployed from a rescue watercraft into the rough seas and swam to the jetty," USLA said. "Battling strong currents, he climbed the slippery, wave-washed rocks to reach the stranded men."

Shields equipped the men with lifejackets and when worsening surf made water rescue impossible, he guided them higher on the tower to await air rescue, USLA said.

He stayed with them, directing the arriving Coast Guard helicopter and helping the rescue swimmer with hoist operations before swimming back to the rescue craft in turbulent conditions, USLA said.

"His calm judgment, endurance, and courage in the face of extreme danger exemplify the lifesaving spirit and extraordinary valor recognized by this award," USLA said.

The Medal of Valor is given out twice a year to a lifeguard who voluntarily risks their life to an extraordinary degree in saving or attempting to save another person. It is the group's highest honor.