A FIREFIGHTER whose "quick thinking" saved a man from ending his life has been recognised with a prestigious commendation.
While returning from a co-responder incident in February, Sam Edwards saw a man on the wrong side of the barrier on a bridge above the busy Ringwood A31.
Without hesitation he grabbed the man and pulled him to safety.
Fortunately, the police were close by as they had already been alerted to the potential incident following a call to fire control from the individual. The man was then passed into their care.
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Assistant chief fire officer Glenn Bowyer visited Ringwood Fire Station, where Sam is based, to present him with a Chief Fire Officer’s Commendation on Monday, May 13.
ACO Bowyer, director of operations at Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “I was delighted to visit the station on behalf of the Chief Fire Officer to present Sam with his well-deserved award.
“Sam’s quick thinking and response that night undoubtedly saved the man’s life and protected the lives of many road-users on a busy highway.
“His actions exemplify the service values, and Sam is an excellent role model for our organisation."
ACO Bowyer thanked Mr Edwards for his "unwavering commitment to servicing the community".
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