Harbour rescue cadets praised

28.07.2017

Army Cadets from Turriff Detachment of 2 Highlanders ACF have been praised by police for their part in rescuing a swimmer who got into difficulties at Macduff Harbour in Aberdeenshire. 

The three cadets – Jordan Anderson (15) and sisters Katlyn (15) and 13-year-old Shannon Wilson ­– and their friend Kyle Chapman (15) spotted the man and Jordan swam out to provide assistance while Kyle threw a lifebelt out towards him which Jordan managed to get over the man’s head.

With the assistance of Coastguard staff and paramedics who had arrived on the scene the man was helped from the water.

While all this was happening Katlyn and Shannon comforted the man’s partner, using first aid skills which they acquired in the ACF.

The girls’ mum Kelly said: “We are really proud of all of them. I was there not long after it happened and they were amazing.”

The police confirmed that the 41-year-old man, believed to be from Aberdeen, had sadly died in hospital. He had been taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary by Coastguard helicopter.

Local Area Commander, Chief Inspector Neil McDonald, said: “I would like to take this opportunity to publicly acknowledge efforts of the members of the public, in particular some youngsters, who assisted in rescuing the man from the water when it became clear he was in difficulty. We would always encourage people to follow water safety advice in rescue situations but regardless this was an extremely brave effort which should rightly be recognised.”

Colonel Scott Dunn, 2 Highlanders Battalion Commander, added: “The cadets and their friend showed immense courage in providing assistance in this case and the Battalion is proud of their heroic efforts.”



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