Amber Black and Mitchell Tarnapolsky, FDNY EMTs from Station 43, received the Christopher J. Prescott Medal for their courageous efforts saving two drowning swimmers in Coney Island. During a July 2024 incident, Tarnapolsky swam approximately 100 yards to rescue the swimmers while Black coordinated the rescue operation via radio. Their swift actions and teamwork led to the safe return of the swimmers to shore. Both EMTs expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing their commitment to safety over accolades.
The swift and selfless efforts of these EMTs ensured the safe recovery of two lives. The award was important to both Black and Tarnapolsky.
It's such a big honor to be given such a high award. It makes you feel like you're held up to a higher standard, and it's good to be recognized.
We do this to keep everyone safe, keep beachgoers having fun and make sure everybody has a good time.
I had to swim about 100 yards to get to them. I put them on my left hip and began to swim them back to shore.
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