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Floor Speech

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Mrs. MOODY. Mr. President, I am honored to rise on the Senate floor today to recognize one of Florida's best.

Last month, a Martin County man was going about his day when he saw a terrible crash behind him in his rearview mirror. And what he did next was truly remarkable and heroic.

The car behind him had crashed into a canal and was sinking under water. Casey Curtis, who I am told is watching this, didn't hesitate. He jumped into the water ready to help. And when he got out there, he found three young children stuck in the back, screaming for help from that sinking vehicle, and their mother was unconscious behind the wheel.

Casey acted quickly and helped free the kids. He got them to dry land, and then he turned back and went to the driver. He stayed in the water, holding the unconscious woman's head above the water to keep her from drowning, until the first responders got there.

Because of his courageous efforts, this mother and her three children are still alive. The family is still together because he selflessly acted without hesitation and put others' safety ahead of his own.

I am so proud to honor him today with a ``Florida's Finest Award.''

This is not somebody who dedicated his professional career in law enforcement. He didn't take an oath. He just decided that day he was going to be someone's guardian, and he chose to do what few others would have chosen to do.

This award honors Floridians and law enforcement officers who demonstrate selfless courage and go above and beyond to save lives.

Casey did not have to do what he did that day, but what he did makes him remarkable, and we are so proud of his efforts.

So thank you, Casey, for stepping in, risking your own safety to save a family. You are truly one of Florida's finest.

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