The two rescued 120 persons in Braithwaite last year
A father and son rescue team from Braithwaite will receive national awards for rescuing 120 persons during Hurricane Isaac last year.
53-year-old Jesse Shaffer III and his 25-year-old son, Jesse Shaffer IV, were chosen from 23 finalists to receive the Citizen Before Self Award presented by the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation.
Mr. Shaffer lost his home in Braithwaite and he and his son stayed behind to rescue stranded friends, neighbors and other residents of the town by boat over a 12-hour period. They also rescued several animals.
Senator Mary Landrieu says she knows neither of the two ever asked for or expected any recognition for their "daring rescue efforts."
It was Landrieu who nominated the duo for the awards.
"This is our small way for our country to show its gratitude and inspire others to give of themselves. We are proud to call the Shaffers our own," she said.
Nominations were made online by members of Congress, police and fire officials, mayors, governors and ordinary citizens.
