Polson honors those who rescued others

In a deeply moving ceremony, Polson police chief Wade Nash formally acknowledged numerous acts of bravery at Monday’s city council meeting by honoring those who have recently saved the lives of others.

Certificates of Commendation and other merits were distributed to five law enforcement agents: corporal William Cleveland, detective sergeant Alan Booth, detective Juan Maso, deputy Clay Shoemaker, and assistant chief John Stevens.

However, the ceremony was highlighted by the certificates bestowed upon civilian schoolgirls Kyla Blixt and her friend Kyler Lundeen, who saved the life of Blixt’s father, Shawn, when he nearly drowned in Flathead Lake last August.

When congratulating Blixt on her extraordinary “lifesaving act by a citizen,” Nash said, “this award is in recognition of your actions on August 3, 2012. On that date, you recognized that your dad and brother were having difficulty swimming and called 911, giving the dispatcher valuable lifesaving information. After your dad and brother were back at the boat, but unable to get back on the boat, you drove the boat, maneuvering it towards shore, which allowed first responders easier access to rescue your dad. Your quick thinking, decisive actions and ability to remain calm in a stressful situation ultimately saved the life of your dad.”

Lundeen was also recognized for her role in the rescue, as she “assisted in holding onto the swimmer’s arm while the boat was driven towards shore,” according to Nash.

Blixt’s father also stepped forward to put his deep appreciation into words, thanking the two girls for their act of heroism.