Being late was on time for VB water rescue
PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — Virginia Beach is the ideal place to practice shipboard and water rescues. That’s why firefighters from Bayonne, New Jersey spent part of last week training at the Oceanfront.
After a long day of training, Bayonne’s Capt. Matt Kemple and others decided to check out the waves at 18th Street and, unexpectedly, got to put that training into practice.
“So I was just planning to go down to the water just to basically feel better because I was very sore,” Kemple said. “So I met another firefighter in the elevator and he had the same idea. So I ended up going down to the water and he was there and we started just talking, and next thing you know, we saw somebody in distress and then we saw it.”
The former lifeguard, triathlete and water polo player’s skills kicked in as he swam 300 yards to rescue the woman.
“And I yelled out to her and said, ‘Don’t give up,’ and I got to her in time,” Kemple said. “And I’m thankful for that. And again, just at the right place at the right time, because we were delayed getting to the beach because my chief left his wallet in the bin and we were delayed by about 25 to 30 minutes.”
The Coast Guard responded and the woman was delivered to safety.
This week, firefighters in Bayonne and from Virginia Beach recognized Kemple for his act of heroism. He said the late timing was just right to save a life.
“So chances are, if that didn’t happen, then I wouldn’t have been there at that time now,” Kemple said. “And I’m glad I can help. And I just hope she goes on to do great things.”
Kemple received the Virginia Beach Life Saving Award and a Letter of Commendation from the U.S. Coast Guard. He’s now on vacation getting what he said is some much-needed rest.
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