RIDGEFIELD, Wash. — On Thursday, August 27, Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue (CCFR) honored three community members for their quick thinking and bravery in rescuing a father and his two young daughters from a near-fatal drowning on the East Fork Lewis River.
Fire Chief John Nohr presented the awards during the department’s regular commission meeting at the Station 21 headquarters.
Awardees
- Alexis DuBay, 16 – Lifesaving Award
- Jessie Dorsey, 17 – Lifesaving Award
- Sabrina Taylor, 34 – Letter of Commendation
These types of awards are rarely presented to community members. The last lifesaving award was given more than four years ago.
“Summer can be an especially challenging time for first responders. With thousands of people flocking to our local waterways to beat the heat, it’s impossible for rescuers to be everywhere at once,” said CCFR Fire Chief John Nohr. “We’re incredibly grateful for Alexis, Jessie, and Sabrina. Their quick thinking and decisive action saved lives, and that’s the kind of courage this community can be proud of.”
The Rescue
The rescue took place on the afternoon of Sunday, July 19, 2026, at Paradise Point State Park. Two young girls, ages 11 and 12, stepped off a submerged ledge, into the water and began struggling to stay afloat. Their father rushed into the river to help but also found himself in deep water, fighting to keep himself and both girls above the surface.
Alexis DuBay and Jesse Dorsey were nearby on a paddleboard when they heard Sabrina Taylor, Dorsey’s aunt, calling for the two to help the children. The two teens quickly paddled to the struggling swimmers, pulled both girls onto the board, and brought them safely to the beach. Relieved of the burden of supporting his daughters, the father was able to regain his footing and return to shore on his own.
The rescued family attended the ceremony to personally thank the three rescuers.
“It’s definitely not an exaggeration, if you guys hadn’t been there, we wouldn’t be here right now,” said Chad Cowan, father of the rescued children. “There is no way I could fight any longer.”
Make a Difference
Ensuring community safety is a group effort, not a solo mission. There are moments when first responders can’t reach an emergency as quickly as a bystander can. It’s in those moments that everyday bravery becomes paramount. CCFR is committed to recognizing individuals who go above and beyond to help keep others safe.
Note: Please do not attempt a rescue if doing so would put you at risk. Always prioritize your own safety before trying to help others. Wearing a life jacket is one of the best ways to prevent drowning. For more water safety tips, visit the Washington State Department of Health.
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