Local Boy Scout receives Medal of Heroism

James Riley was recently awarded the Boy Scouts of America Medal of Heroism Award, which is given for heroism and skill in saving or attempting to save a life at minimum risk to self. 

On Thanksgiving weekend 2011, James and his family traveled to their farm in Sterrett, Ala. While fishing on the dock with his granddad and seven cousins, James heard a splash at the far end of the dock. Before the adults realized what was happening, James dropped his fish and ran down the docks. He came flying by, kicking off shoes as he went, his granddad noticed as he watched James beat him to the water.

The youngest cousin, Miles Whaley, age 4, had fallen in the water fully clothed on the wintry day. He had fallen far and could not touch the bottom or reach the dock. Without hesitation, James jumped into the water and swam out to Miles. James was not able to touch the bottom either, but he was able to hold his breath and hold his cousin above water and walk him closer to the docks.  

The Heroism Award has been given out 6,077 times since 1923 and 155 since 2012.