Sen. Landrieu Nominates Braithwaite Heroes for Congressional Medal of Honor Society Award
WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Mary L. Landrieu, D-La., today nominated Jesse Shaffer III, 53, and his son Jesse Shaffer IV, 25, both of Braithwaite, La., for the Citizen Service Before Self Honors award. This award recognizes and honors ordinary Americans who have clearly demonstrated a willingness to sacrifice for others through a single act of extraordinary heroism at risk to one's life, or through a prolonged series of selfless acts on behalf of their fellow citizens. Members of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society present this award to three U.S. citizens each year.
The elder Shaffer, who lost his home in Braithwaite from devastating floods as a result of Hurricane Isaac, and his son stayed behind to rescue friends, neighbors and residents of the town while hurricane-force winds, heavy rain and rising floodwater continued to hammer the area. While police and fire department officials were unable to reach some stranded residents, both Shaffers controlled a boat and saved a combined 120 people in 12 hours. They also rescued several animals.
"Both of these men have shown an extraordinary amount of courage, sacrifice and selfless service," Sen. Landrieu said. "Mr. Shaffer and his son are shining examples of citizen heroes who deserve to be recognized nationally for their bravery. It is with great pleasure that I nominate them for this prestigious award and thank them for their service to the people of Plaquemines Parish."
A panel of Medal of Honor recipients will select three individuals to receive Citizen Service Before Self Honors at a national awards ceremony on March 25, 2013, in conjunction with National Medal of Honor Day at Arlington Cemetery in Arlington, Va.
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