At a recent Fire Commission meeting, members of the Kaua'i Fire Department received honors for carrying out a daring nighttime rescue of two kayakers in distress. During the December incident, Ocean Safety Officers and firefighters braved intense surf and darkness to save the kayakers trapped in a powerful rip current.
"The swift and decisive actions of these first responders played a crucial role in preventing what could have been a tragic outcome," said Kaua'i Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson, according to a press release. The rescue took place at Wanini on Dec. 26, 2024, when high surf and strong currents created perilous conditions for water activities.
Reports detail that the kayakers were swept away by the 'Anini back channel rip current, prompting a call from a witness who saw them being pulled out to sea. Firefighters and Ocean Safety Bureau personnel responded promptly; the rescue mission involved navigating the hazardous waters to reach the stranded individuals.
A rescue ski, deployed by OSB from Hanalei Bay, and a paddleboard, operated by one of the firefighters, were instrumental in the operation. They managed to rescue the female kayaker, who was being overwhelmed by the waves, and guided the male kayaker back to shore, ensuring both were safe and sound. Despite the male kayaker's initial resistance to medical attention, he expressed relief after being reunited with the other rescued kayaker, as described in the official account. The following individuals received commendations for their bravery: OSO II Kesava Davis, OSO II Mattaniah Milbrand, Fire Captain Chauncey Pa, Firefighter III Edward Pananganan, Firefighter I Ryan Allen, and Firefighter I Matthew Mauricio. Their actions on that harrowing night in December have not only secured the safety of lives at risk but have also affirmed the vital role that first responders play in our community's well-being.
