Mike Haridopolos, FL
Linked statement
“A man did a brave thing. He saved three people. That is good. I want to thank him and say congratulations.”
“I want to honor Police Officer Jason Van Zile. He jumped into dangerous water during a storm to save a family of three.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Titusville Police Officer Jason Van Zile for an extraordinary act of courage and selfless service. During a sudden and dangerous storm on the Indian River Lagoon, a family paddleboarding near Parrish Park was thrown into the water after a violent storm. Officer Van Zile was the first officer to arrive. Seeing that there was no time to wait, he removed his gear and entered the water. Despite dangerous conditions and a safety rope that became caught in submerged rocks, the officer continued to rescue all three members of the family, including two children. He is a former lifeguard, a United States Marines veteran, and his courage that day reflects a lifetime of service to others. I congratulate Officer Van Zile on being named the city of Titusville's Employee of the Month and thank him for his incredible service.”
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Titusville Police Officer Jason Van Zile for an extraordinary act of courage and selfless service. During a sudden and dangerous storm on the Indian River Lagoon, a family paddleboarding near Parrish Park was thrown into the water after a violent storm. Officer Van Zile was the first officer to arrive. Seeing that there was no time to wait, he removed his gear and entered the water. Despite dangerous conditions and a safety rope that became caught in submerged rocks, the officer continued to rescue all three members of the family, including two children. He is a former lifeguard, a United States Marines veteran, and his courage that day reflects a lifetime of service to others. I congratulate Officer Van Zile on being named the city of Titusville's Employee of the Month and thank him for his incredible service.