California State Parks Seasonal Lifeguard Receives the Governor’s Public Safety Medal of Valor
Contact: Newsroom@parks.ca.gov
California State Parks is thrilled to announced that Lifeguard II (Seasonal) Benjamin Sweet received the Governor’s Public Safety Medal of Valor Award for his act of heroism during a ceremony on Wednesday, June 18, in Sacramento. The Medal of Valor is the highest state honor for valor awarded to a public safety officer.
“The heroic and selfless act of Benjamin Sweet during an extremely dangerous ocean rescue showed unbelievable courage and commitment. Ben’s actions reflected the nature of the work done by public safety employees across State Parks,” said California State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “His bravery is to be admired, and we are proud of you.”
Caption: California Governor Gavin Newsom awards Benjamin Sweet, lifeguard II (seasonal), the Public Safety Medal of Valor Award for his act of heroism at a ceremony in Sacramento.
On Dec. 28, 2023, Sweet executed an extremely dangerous rescue at San Buenaventura State Beach in the City of Ventura. Under an extreme high surf advisory, State Parks lifeguards identified a surfer in distress and an unattended surfboard about 400 yards offshore, near the end of the Ventura Pier. The surf conditions were challenging, with waves reaching 15-20 feet and breaking 500 yards outside of the pier.
Sweet spotted the surfer and, despite the treacherous waves and debris, made the selfless decision to jump off the pier and swim through the hazardous conditions to rescue the surfer. After a grueling half-mile swim and facing powerful waves, Sweet managed to secure the surfer to a rescue buoy.
While attempting to gain the attention of the rescue helicopter searching above, Sweet and the surfer traveled for a mile in a fast-moving lateral current, negotiating countless extremely large waves. The force of one wave was strong enough to rip and separate the strap from the buoy, causing Sweet to lose sight of the surfer.Thoughseparated during the rescue, the surfer was safely brought ashore with the rescue buoy, thanks to Sweet's swift actions and unwavering dedication.
For his extraordinary bravery and lifesaving efforts, Sweet was also honored with several awards in 2024:
- California State Park Rangers Association – Medal of Valor
- California Surf Lifesaving Association – Medal of Valor
- United States Lifesaving Association – Medal of Valor
- Park Rangers Association of California – Medal of Valor
- California State Parks – Director's Award for Special Act/Service
These accolades are testaments to Sweet’s exceptional bravery, showcasing the dedication and strength State Parks lifeguards represent. In 2024, Ben shared his story of the rescue in this video.
Governor Gavin Newsom recognized 13 Californians for their service above and beyond the call of duty this week. Two individuals were awarded the Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor, including Sweet and Officer Gabriel Rodriguez from the San Bernardino Police Department, and 11 public servants received the Governor’s State Employee Medal of Valor. These recognitions are the highest honor the Governor and the state can bestow upon public servants.
Under the Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor Act of 2003, the Governor may award medals to public safety officers for extraordinary valor. The Attorney General’s Office receives and reviews nominations with the Medal of Valor Review Board, which then makes a recommendation to the Attorney General.
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California State Parks provides for the health, inspiration and education of the people of California by helping to preserve the state’s extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valued natural and cultural resources, and creating opportunities for high quality outdoor recreation.