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The View from the Hill

By Korri Leigh Crowley

From the Office of Representative Garrett J. Bradley

On October 10, 2007, Representative Bradley honored the fire fighters, police officers, state troopers, and harbormasters from Hull and Hingham that took part in the Hull Weir River Rescue.

One of the things I enjoy most about my job is the wide-range of issues I deal with on a day-to-day basis. Politics isn’t always glamorous, and I’ve certainly learned that every request is important to those who make it. Even “small” issues such as an abundance of geese in the town park impact the quality of life for Rep. Bradley’s constituents, and that is what we are here to improve.

On September 2 a joint water rescue took place at the George Washington Bridge in Hull. An unusually high tide that day had forced large quantities of water into a tunnel underneath the bridge, creating a dangerous current. Unaware of the treacherous conditions, kayakers that were boating in the River became swept into the current and two were caught beneath the bridge. The situation quickly escalated when a Hull fire fighter also became trapped while attempting a rescue. The officers found themselves in a race against time as the water level continued to rise. Captain Christopher Russo of the Hull Fire Department was lowered on a ladder into the water where he was able to pull the final three victims trapped under the bridge. The rescue was a full success, with no injuries reported. 

What took place that day in Hull is a shining example of teamwork and the benefits of many coming together to each lend their own unique skills to the effort. Each officer that reported that day was an integral and indispensable part of the rescue. Special mention should also be made of the Hingham and Hull Harbormasters who assisted in the water. Many of the officers I spoke with declared the harbormasters to be the unsung heroes of the day. 

Representative Bradley was impressed by the heroism and professionalism shown that day and invited the officers involved to a special ceremony held at the Grand Staircase of the State House. The Representative was joined by Senator Bob Hedlund, Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray, Secretary of Public Safety and Security Kevin Burke, Undersecretary of Law Enforcement and Fire Services Kurt Schwartz, and State Police Superintendent Mark Delany. The officers were presented with citations and the event culminated with a lunch and guided tour of the Senate and House Chambers. 

Another big thank you to the brave men and women who literally saved the day! 

The Office of Representative Garrett J. Bradley
Chairman, Committee on Election Laws
The State House, Room 443
Boston, MA 02133
Phone 617-722-2460
Fax 617-722-2353
E-mail korri.crowley@state.ma.us

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