Security officer honored for saving 2 kids from rip current during Florida trip
CHIPPEWA COUNTY, MI July 22 2020 – A Michigan man has been honored for saving two children from a rip current during his trip to Florida in March.
The Volusia County Beach Safety Ocean Rescue awarded Justin LaCoursiere, a security guard from Chippewa County, a commendation for heroism on July 17. Volusia County is located on Florida’s Atlantic Coast and is home to some of the state’s most popular beaches including Daytona Beach and New Smyrna Beach.
LaCoursiere was vacationing at Bethune Beach Park on March 14 when observed two children being swept out to sea and yelling for help. According to Florida officials, he quickly risked his life to swim out against the rip current with his surfboard and was able to drag the children to safety.
No lifeguards were on duty in the area, according to Volusia County Beach Safety Ocean Rescue. LaCoursiere had been on his way to his planned vacation, a cruise, when the COVID-19 pandemic changed his plans.
“His plans were cancelled, and Justin found himself stuck in Florida,” a Facebook post from the Chippewa County Sheriff’s Office reads. “Justin found himself on the beach that day disappointed that his plans were ruined. After the dramatic rescue Justin commented on how he felt he was put in that situation to save those kids.
