Days before the Fourth of July Draven Starr-Howell was near the Sodus Point Pier when three women began yelling for help.
They were drowning, and fighting a strong current. The Palmyra man jumped into the water to help. He was overcome by the waves, and was rescued himself.
However, he died the next day at Rochester General Hospital.
His parents were asked to receive awards and commendations for their son’s actions.
Sheriff Barry Virts and State Sen. Pam Helming, R-54 of Canandaigua, presented letters of commendation, a Meritorious Conduct medal and a New York State Liberty Medal, one of the highest civilian honors a state resident can receive.
Also presented with commendation letters and awards were Jesse Dean, James Hilaire, Lucas and Jayden Shulla and Gabriel Lopez-Izaguirre for their efforts to save the three women.
Sgt. Aaron DiSanto was also singled out for his efforts that day.
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