
In a touching ceremony this week, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office honored the memory of one of their own. The late Sergeant Bubba Stipe was posthumously awarded a Life Saving Award, which was accepted by his wife Christina Stipe and daughter Fallon. The award commemorates a heroic act from April 5, 2024, when Sergeant Stipe saved a 10-month-old child's life.
St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office Facebook post recounted the events, stating, "Shortly after arriving home on April 5, 2024, Sergeant Bubba Stipe of the 2nd District received a loud and frantic knock at his front door." In a testament to his character, Sergeant Stipe, despite being off-duty, took immediate action to administer life-saving rescue breaths to the unresponsive infant. The child, suffering from a severe allergic reaction to fish, was later stabilized by EMS and made a full recovery.
Sheriff Randy Smith presented the award to Sergeant Stipe’s family, recognizing his quick response and unwavering service. "His Badge May Rest...But His Legacy Lives On," the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office shared in a heartfelt Facebook post.
Bubba Stipe, who passed away in the fall of 2024 following a battle with cancer, left behind an enduring legacy of service and bravery. The ceremony was as much a tribute to his life as it was a moment of honor for his family. As they accepted the award, Christina and Fallon Stipe represented his enduring spirit, a source of pride for both the family and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.