Deputies Recognized with Lifesaving Awards

Three Columbus County deputies were recognized recently for saving the lives of children in three different emergencies.
“These deputies went above and beyond on critical moments to protect and save lives, embodying the true spirit of public service,” according to a press release from the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office.
Sgt. Caleb Fonvielle, Cpl. Chris Cotton, and School Resource Deputy R.J. Fowler were honored at the annual department meeting last week.
Cotton was honored for administering CPR to an infant while rescue was en route to a Clarendon home last year.
Fonvielle extracted a toddler who was trapped in a heating vent at a Georgia Pacific Road home in the early morning hours of Feb. 11. With the mother’s permission, the sergeant removed part of the flooring around the trapped two-year-old. He was unhurt.
On Jan. 31, Fowler was on duty at Whiteville High School when he received a report of a student choking. He provided emergency first aid until a rescue squad arrived.
“We are incredibly grateful for the dedication and courage of our deputies,” Sheriff Bill Rogers said in a press release, “who put their lives on the line every day to protect and serve Columbus County.”