St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Deputy First Class Dylan Crawford was selected the 2021 Louisiana Sheriff’s Association Deputy Valor award winner. The Deputy Valor award recipient is chosen based on an individual’s unquestionable performance above and beyond the call of duty and recognizes any extreme life-threatening acts of bravery.
DFC Crawford attended the LSA Annual Conference this week, where he was presented this prestigious state-wide award for his heroic actions.
On September 27, 2020, DFC Crawford was enjoying a day off with his family on the Bogue Chitto River. While in his personal flatboat with his family members, DFC Crawford observed a group of frantic individuals at the top side of the low-head dam. DFC Crawford secured his flatboat and went to investigate.
DFC Crawford observed an individual had fallen over the dam. Since Crawford was experienced and familiar with the dangers of this part of the river, he jumped into the water without regard for his own safety.
While wading in the water to assist the victim, two additional individuals fell over the dam and landed in the violent current. Unfortunately, DFC Crawford realized that one victim was no longer in sight, and turned his attention to assisting the other remaining victims.
While trapped in the current, DFC Crawford was able to coach the remaining victims to stay afloat and keep calm. Another witness was able to float a kayak down river to them which DFC Crawford secured and instructed the victims to hold on to. At that point, everyone in the water was able to keep their feet planted firmly against the wall to keep from being swept away or sucked underwater. All the victims were able to be hoisted out of the water and onto the shore with the assistance of DFC Crawford’s family members.
“I am extremely proud of Deputy First Class Crawford,” Sheriff Smith said. “He is the epitome of selfless service and heroism, and he exemplifies what it means to put his life on the line to save others. I applaud Deputy Crawford, and I thank the Louisiana Sheriff’s Association for recognizing him with this honor. Please join me in thanking DFC Crawford for the service he provides to the citizens of St. Tammany Parish and congratulating him on this award.”