Quick-Thinking Fifth Graders in Lake Ellyn Rescue Drowning Man in Heroic Move to Prevent Tragedy 

A picturesque summer evening swimming session in the tranquil setting of Lake Ellyn took an unexpected turn a few months ago. On June 17, four young friends, just on the brink of adolescence, found themselves in the middle of a life-saving adventure. Showcasing courage beyond their years, the Glen Ellyn students triumphed in their astounding feat, gaining admiration from many. 

As the sun dipped below the horizon on that idyllic summer night, Declan Devlin and his twin brother Tiernan were enjoying a leisurely evening. They were accompanied by two friends, namely Tommy Nitti and Charlie Valerio. The boys suddenly heard harrowing cries for help. 

A dreadful swimming incident with heartwarming outcomes 

While the four were sharing a moment of refreshment, the screams immediately set their young hearts racing. Soon, the boys discovered that a man, struggling to reach a broken radio-controlled boat, had found himself in peril. Panic set in their minds as he loudly cried out for assistance. Astonishingly, amidst the calmness of the evening, these fifth-grade friends displayed an unexpected act of bravery.

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Charlie Valerio, sharp-eared and quick-witted, was the first to hear the cries for help. Without hesitation, he alerted Tommy and Declan, who had previous experience of going on white-water rafting trips. Declan was aware of the precautionary steps in case an individual went overboard, so he quickly incorporated his knowledge. “I gave him my life jacket, and told him to float on his back. And then we brought him back to shore,” he said, recalling the chilling scene. 

Act of sheer courage averts tragedy

Wasting no time, Declan and Tommy dashed to the latter’s nearby home, securing a kayak and life vests for the rescue effort. As they paddled out into the lake, the duo swiftly reached the struggling man. With precision and cool-headedness, they handed him a life preserver. Adding to their remarkable accuracy, the boys took turns paddling the inflatable kayak back to shore. The man clung on, swimming with renewed hope for survival. 

Glen Ellyn Police Chief Philip Norton later praised the boys’ quick response, stating, “There is little doubt that but for the quick actions of these young men, tragedy was averted.” The school board and Superintendent Melissa Kaczkowski honored them this Thursday. As a token of appreciation for their selfless act of empathy, they received certificates, while their parents received a police patch and a challenge coin. 

Although these coins are often reserved for military heroes, the authorities made this decision after recognizing the boys’ exemplary act of heroism. When asked about their future careers, some of the four suggested they could become law enforcement officers. Others thought teaching might be their path, but they matched up on a different note. As Charlie Valerio aptly summed up that memorable summer night, the team of four mentioned being great friends with each other. 

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