Fairfax City, VA — A Fairfax County Sheriff’s deputy was celebrated this week for bravery shown 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 (PFC) William Douglas and four other responders were honored for swift, coordinated action during a January 28 emergency in Fairfax City.
Just before 2 p.m., a homeowner called 911 after witnessing a man enter the backyard and fall into an outdoor pool filled with ice-cold water. When the individual didn’t resurface, multiple agencies rushed to assist.
Upon arrival, PFC Douglas and Fairfax County Fire and Rescue personnel located the man at the bottom of the pool, unresponsive. They entered the water, recovered him, and took turns administering lifesaving measures.
While the outcome was not what they hoped for, officials commended the team’s courage and collaboration under extreme conditions. Sheriff’s Office leaders said the actions of PFC Douglas and his colleagues reflect the highest standards of public service and dedication.
Other responders recognized include Capt. Jon Bullock, Lt. Ben Smith, MPO Charles Mills, and MPO William Lawlor.
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