Senator Fuschillo and Assemblyman Mcdonough Present Liberty Medal to 12 Year Old Hero From North Bellmore

     Photo caption: Senator Fuschillo (center) and Assemblyman McDonough (right) present the New York State Senate Liberty Medal to David Collins. They are joined by David's parents, Gary and Susan Collins.

     Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. (R-Merrick) and Assemblyman David G. McDonough (R-North Merrick) today presented the New York State Senate Liberty Medal to David Collins, a 12 year old boy from North Bellmore, for heroically saving a young boy’s life.

     On June 29th, David was at a graduation party at a friend’s house swimming in the pool when he noticed another boy laying motionless at the bottom of the deep end. While other children in the pool thought the boy was playing, David immediately swam to the deep end, dove down ten feet to the pool bottom and pulled the boy up to the surface, at which point he was lifeless. Adults performed CPR on the boy, who was taken to the hospital and released the next day.

     “David’s quick thinking helped save a life and prevent a tragedy. By acting immediately as soon as he thought something was wrong, David saved those precious few moments which often mean the difference between someone living or dying. He’s a true hero and it is my pleasure to present him with this much deserved honor,” said Senator Fuschillo.

     “It is an honor and privilege to present this Medal to David as his bravery was pinnacle in saving the life of a young man. His quick thinking and ability to stay focused on the task at hand proved crucial in getting the help needed to prevent the disastrous loss of life," said Assemblyman McDonough.

     The New York State Senate Liberty Medal is one of the highest civilian honors that a New Yorker can receive. Similar to the national Congressional Gold Medal, the award is given to individuals who have merited special commendation for exceptional, heroic, or humanitarian acts and achievements on behalf of their fellow New Yorkers.