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SBSO SGT. JACOB HADLEY HONORED WITH KIWANIS LIFESAVER AWARD
St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Jacob Hadley has been honored with the prestigious St. Bernard Kiwanis Club of St. Bernard Sammie Catalanotto LifeSaver Award for his heroic actions that helped save a man’s life, Sheriff James Pohlmann said.
Sgt. Hadley received the award Tuesday, July 14, during a banquet hosted by the Kiwanis Club at Rocky & Carlo’s Restaurant in Chalmette.
The award recognizes his courageous response during a rescue on the Mississippi River, where he played a critical role in saving a distressed individual who had jumped from a ship and was being swept toward barges by the river’s strong current.
When larger vessels were unable to safely reach the man, Sgt. Hadley quickly coordinated with firefighters, port personnel and a boat operator to use a smaller vessel to reach him. After several unsuccessful rescue attempts, Sgt. Hadley persuaded the man to accept help moments before he was pulled safely from the water.
“Sgt. Hadley demonstrated outstanding courage, quick thinking and leadership under extremely dangerous circumstances,” Sheriff Pohlmann said. “His actions, along with the teamwork of everyone involved, made the difference between life and death. We are proud of his commitment to protecting others and grateful to have him serving our community.”
Col. Walter Dornan, commander of the Field Operations Bureau Patrol Division, said Sgt. Hadley’s response exemplifies the professionalism expected of Sheriff’s Office deputies.
“Sgt. Hadley remained calm, assessed the situation quickly and took decisive action under extremely difficult circumstances,” Col. Dornan said. “His leadership, sound judgment and commitment to preserving life reflect the professionalism we expect from our deputies, and we’re proud to see him recognized for his outstanding efforts.”
Capt. Stephen Ingargiola, director of the training, said the rescue demonstrates the importance of preparation and continual training.
“Training prepares our deputies for the unexpected, but it’s their ability to apply that training under pressure that truly makes the difference,” Capt. Ingargiola said.
“Sgt. Hadley’s actions are a testament to the value of continual training, teamwork and the commitment our deputies have to protecting life in every situation.”
Sgt. Hadley credited the successful rescue to the coordinated efforts of everyone on scene.
“As these efforts were underway, I could only think that time was against us, as even an experienced swimmer can struggle to swim in the current of the Mississippi River,” Sgt. Hadley said. “Once we had the subject safely out of the water, I thanked the members of the Fire Department and the boat captain for their efforts. This was truly a team effort and would not have been successful without their assistance.”
Receiving a LifeSaver award is an honor, Sgt. Hadley said.
“I am humbled to have been selected for this award,” he said. “It is my purpose as a member of the Sheriff’s Office to help those in need, even when they don’t want to help themselves. I am thankful for the training and skills that allow me to serve this community.”
Sgt. Hadley began his law enforcement career with the Sheriff’s Office in 2018. In addition to serving in the Field Operations Bureau’s Patrol Division, he previously worked in the Special Investigations Division’s Narcotics Unit. He also is a member of the Special Weapons and Tactics (S.W.A.T.) team and is a certified Public Safety Bomb Technician.
Before joining the Sheriff’s Office, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2011 to 2015, attaining the rank of sergeant.
Congratulations, Sgt. Hadley, and thank you for your service.🖤💙
#SBSO
#KeepingStBernardSafe
