Friendship firefighters honored for saving 3-year-old drowning victim

Honored by the Versailles American Legion on Thursday night

(VERSAILLES, Ind.) – Two Friendship firefighters are being recognized for their life-saving actions when every second mattered.

The department responded to a report of a 3-year-old boy who had drowned on October 7. 

Gary Thomas and Brian Thomas were among the firefighters who answered the call. 

They responded to the scene within four minutes and immediately began resuscitation efforts. 

“The child, initially unresponsive and not breathing, began to regain color and a pulse due to their quick actions,” said Friendship Fire Chief Keith Sieverding. 

The boy was flown to a Cincinnati hospital and made a full recovery after a week in the hospital. 

Both Gary and Brian were honored as Firefighters of the Year by the Versailles American Legion on Thursday night. 

Gary has 36 years of volunteer firefighting service and Brian has served for eight years. 

“Their actions on that day are a testament to the importance and impact of the volunteer fire service. Congratulations to both for their efforts and well-deserved recognition,” Sieverding said.