Bridgewater UPS Driver Honored For Heroism, Saving 8 During Ida Flood

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Nick Dirla, a UPS driver from Bridgewater, received the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award for his heroism in saving eight people's lives during Hurricane Ida.

Dirla was chosen out of about 300 applicants and was awarded along with 10 others on May 9 at the ceremony at Ramapo College of New Jersey. Dirla received a $7,500 award for his heroism.

Russ Berrie has been honoring people in New Jersey who make a difference or have done a heroic act since 1997.

"Our communities need more heroes – good-hearted people with an innate kindness – who give all of who they are to tackle problems others hesitate to attempt, " said Angelica Berrie, President, Russell Berrie Foundation. "From activists fighting injustice and systemic inequities, to neighbors helping neighbors struggling with basic needs, the remarkable individuals we honor this year have taken action to be the change we need to see in this world."

Dirla, a Bridgewater-Raritan High School graduate who was voted class clown, had just started his new job with UPS three months before Ida hit. He had gotten stuck in the floodwaters but stayed clam and was able to rescue eight people and pull them into his truck on Sept. 1. Read the full story: Bridgewater UPS Driver Saves 8 In Flooded Waters On Rt. 22: VIDEO

Dirla used his humor to keep everyone calm and guide them to safety that night.

Bridgewater Township also honored Dirla in September. Read More: Bridgewater UPS Driver Honored For Heroism By Mayor And Council

To learn more about the Russ Berrie Awards and each of the 2022 honorees, visit ramapo.edu/berrie-awards.

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