Heroic actions during emergency honoured by RCMP

A lifeguard has been honoured by RCMP for his bravery during an emergency at an Okanagan children’s facility.

On July 29, 2022, a speeding boat struck the dock at Green Bay Bible camp in West Kelowna, ejecting a female occupant into the water.

Once arriving at the scene, RCMP officers learned that off-duty camp lifeguard Aiden Godwin took action during the chaotic scene and immediately swam towards the unconscious female through debris and leaking fuel.

“The female was found floating unconscious in the water. Aiden, with sheer determination and relying on his training brought the female to shore while supporting her head and neck, said RCMP spokesperson Constable Mike Della-Paolera.

Once on shore, with the assistance of other Good Samaritans, the victim was positioned onto a spine board and Godwin continued to assist in providing additional life-saving first aid until Emergency Health Services and police arrived. The female was then transported to hospital for further medical treatment.

On Thursday (Aug. 11), Kelowna RCMP Superintendent Kara Triance attended a lakeside ceremony to present Godwin with a plaque to celebrate his actions which Mounties say, without doubt, contributed to saving the female’s life.

“Our community is fortunate to have people like Aiden who rise above the crowds with their courage and valour. On behalf of the Kelowna Regional Royal Canadian Mounted Police and your community, we thank you Aiden,” said Triance.

The commendation was presented directly to Godwin. Five other lifeguards and the emergency medical technicians in training were also recognized for their actions in assisting once the injured party was brought to shore.

Aiden Godwin (3rd from right) and other lifeguards are recognized by RCMP members for their efforts on July 29, 2022 at a West Kelowna bible camp. (Photo credit: RCMP)