California Seasonal Lifeguard Benjamin Sweet has been awarded the Governor’s Public Safety Medal of Valor Award for his act of heroism during an extremely dangerous rescue at San Buenaventura State Beach in the City of Ventura back on December 28, 2023.
According to California State Parks, this is Sweet’s 6th award related to the rescue, with him receiving a Medal of Valor from the California State Park Rangers Association, California Surf Lifesaving Association, United States Lifesaving Association, and Park Rangers Association of California in addition to the Director’s Award for Special Act/Service from California State Parks.
“The heroic and selfless act of Benjamin Sweet during an extremely dangerous ocean rescue showed unbelievable courage and commitment. Ben’s actions reflected the nature of the work done by public safety employees across State Parks. His bravery is to be admired, and we are proud of you.” – California State Parks Director Armando Quintero.
On December 28, 2023, Sweet spotted a surfer in distress and an unattended surfboard about 400 yards offshore near the end of Ventura Pier under an extreme high surf advisory. Waves were reaching 15-20 feet and breaking 500 yards outside the pier, but Sweet still made the selfless decision to jump off the pier and swim to the surfer. After swimming for half a mile in powerful waves, Sweet was able to secure the surfer to a rescue buoy.
Sweet and the surfer continued to travel for a mile in the fast-moving lateral current while attempting to gain the attention of the rescue helicopter above, and one wave was strong enough to rip and separate the strap from the buoy. Sweet lost sight of the surfer, but the individual was still safely brought ashore with the rescue buoy.
