Cpl. Brad Raper received his department's Meritorious Service Award from Police Chief Frank Hooper for his role in rescuing a small boy in an April 14 apartment fire on Jesse Jewell Parkway.
"All of you along with several bystanders held a blanket and caught a 3-year-old boy who was dropped from an upstairs window by the mother," Hooper said.
Hooper said Raper was off duty when he saw people gathered at the fire scene and called the fire department.
Hooper added Raper and other officers involved in the rescue performed their life saving actions before fire and EMS units arrived.
A 2-year-old girl and an elderly man were also rescued from the burning apartment.
Carlos Arevalo was commended for his June 11 action in rescuing 5-year-old Eduardo Rezo from drowning at an apartment swimming pool.
"He immediately dove in, rescued Eduardo and placed his unconscious body on the deck of the swimming pool," Hooper said.
Another man, Ramon Montoya, revived the child with mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and was also recognized and commended, but he could not attend the council meeting.
SAYING GOODBYE TO ADRIAN NILES
The City of Gainesville this week is saying goodbye to a longtime employee who is leaving his post as Public Works Director to go into the ministry full time.
City Manager Bryan Shuler said Adrian Niles compiled an outstanding work record during a career with the city that spanned over 25 years.
"He's held a number of positions throughout his career with the city, each one with more challenges and opportunities," Shuler said.
Shuler said Niles was always responsive to the council and citizens' requests; Niles will become a full time pastor of a church in Monroe when he leaves the city, where he served as part time minister while working in Gainesville.
Cpl. Raper awarded by Mayor Figueras
Carlos Arevalo with Chief Frank Hooper
Adrian Niles
http://accesswdun.com/article/2008/8/212514