CHAMPLAIN, N.Y. – On March 31, Customs and Border Protection Acting Director of Field Operations, Rose Hilmey, presented Supervisory CBP Officer Jose Lorenzo with the CBP Commissioner’s Humanitarian Award.
Customs and Border Protection Acting Director of Field Operations, Rose Hilmey (right), presents Supervisory CBP Officer Jose Lorenzo (left) with the CBP Commissioner’s Humanitarian Award.
The Humanitarian Award is given to recognize employees who demonstrate compassion and competence, exceeding normal expectations, in assisting individuals in extreme circumstances. Examples of extreme circumstances are those life-threatening situations requiring an immediate medical response. Out of CBP’s workforce of 60,000 employees rarely does someone earn this prestigious award.
On August 14, 2014 while home, Supervisor Lorenzo witnessed an accident near the end of his driveway. The accident caused one vehicle to roll-over and rest on its roof. Supervisor Lorenzo immediately responded to the scene and noticed the vehicle contained two occupants. Smoke began emanating from the vehicle and fearing a fire, he immediately extracted both occupants from the vehicle and brought them to safety and secured the scene until first responders arrived.
The training, skills, and initiative of Supervisor Lorenzo were key factors in saving two lives. “Without Supervisor Lorenzo’s swift action this situation may not have had a happy ending,” said Director Hilmey. “His courage and prompt action reflect his dedication to CBP and its mission, and for the safety of the community.”