State Park Ranger

Department of Parks and Recreation

6/26/1974

Special Act Award (Gold)

On June 26, 1974, at Thornton State Beach in San Mateo County, State Park Ranger Steven R. Gazzano saved a 17 year old boy from the water when the boy could not get back to shore. The victim had floated beyond the breakers on a plastic float, but then the float ruptured and he was unable to return to shore against the current. A park visitor reported the situation to Ranger Gazzano. Ranger Gazzano changed into his swim trunks, grabbed a float, ran a quarter-mile to the beach and entered the water. Ranger Gazzano was unable to make progress, so he left the water and reentered at a point nearer the victim and successfully assisted him to shore.