Staff Reports
In a heart-pounding act of bravery, a heroic individual came to the rescue of a man who had fallen through the ice of a river in Moorhead, North Dakota. This courageous Samaritan, David Vander Ark, proved that a true hero can be found in the most unexpected places.
As Vander Ark was taking his dog for an early morning walk along the Red River, he suddenly heard desperate cries for help. He immediately sprung into action, despite a brief distraction caused by the sound of a passing train. Determined to locate the distressed individual, Vander Ark persevered and found the man clinging desperately to the icy river.
With exceptional presence of mind, Vander Ark swiftly reached out for assistance by dialing 911. As he kept communicating with the man and the emergency dispatcher, help was on its way. The local police responded promptly, showcasing the unwavering dedication of our law enforcement officers.
Vander Ark and the police officer met at the river bank, ready to execute a daring rescue mission. Using his resourcefulness, Vander Ark located a stick that was miraculously the perfect length to extend to the man in the freezing cold water. With his quick thinking and the help of the police officer, they successfully pulled the man to safety.
The selfless acts of Vander Ark did not end there. After ensuring that the rescued individual was in the hands of the capable first responders, Vander Ark continued with his daily responsibilities. He went home and, like any responsible father, got his daughters ready for school, demonstrating the resilience and determination of everyday heroes.
Despite his heroic actions, Vander Ark humbly denies being a hero himself. He insists that anyone else would have done the same in his place. Yet, his daughter recognized the valor in his actions and presented him with a heartwarming reward: a handmade art piece honoring her father as the “#1 water rescuer.”
This remarkable act of bravery should serve as a reminder that true heroes are ordinary individuals who rise to the occasion when faced with challenging circumstances. Vander Ark’s commitment to saving a life showcases the unwavering spirit of Americans and the importance of community support. We applaud his bravery and extend our gratitude to the police officers who prioritize the safety of citizens every day.
