Fairfax City, VA – A Fairfax County Sheriff’s deputy was honored this week for an act of courage earlier this year, receiving the Bronze Certificate of Valor from the Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce.
According to the Fairfax County Sheriff’s Office, Private 1st Class William Douglas and four other first responders were recognized for their quick action during a January 28 emergency in Fairfax City.
Just before 2 p.m., a homeowner called 911 after spotting a man enter his backyard and fall into an outdoor pool covered in ice-cold water. The man failed to resurface, prompting an urgent multi-agency response.
When responders arrived, PFC Douglas and members of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department discovered the man unresponsive at the bottom of the pool. They immediately entered the water to recover him and took turns providing life-saving measures.
Although the outcome was not what rescuers had hoped for, officials praised their bravery and teamwork under extreme conditions. Sheriff’s Office leaders said the actions of PFC Douglas and his colleagues exemplified the highest standards of service and dedication.
Other responders recognized include Capt. Jon Bullock, Lt. Ben Smith, MPO Charles Mills, and MPO William Lawlor.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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