State Senator Patty Ritchie presented two State Park Police Officers with the New York State Liberty Award Tuesday for their role in rescuing a man from the St. Lawrence River last summer.

In June, New York State Park Police Officers John Friot and Dustin Lottie  rescued Thomas Clark—a 70-year-old boater—after he was overcome by carbon monoxide fumes while piloting a 28-foot cabin cruiser.

“Thanks to the quick thinking, bravery and teamwork of these two officers, Thomas Clark is alive and well today,” said Senator Ritchie. 

“I am very proud to present the New York State Senate Liberty Medal, to these two heroes and thank them for their dedication as well as their service to our community.”

The New York State Senate Liberty Award is one of the highest civilian honors that a New Yorker can receive. Similar to the national Congressional Gold Medal, the award is given to individuals who have merited special commendation for exceptional, heroic, or humanitarian acts and achievements on behalf of their fellow New Yorkers.