When friends and high school students Ben Olsen and Gerard Rhatigan from Latham realized that a girl with special needs was missing, they were relentless in their attempt to try to find her. 6 year old Teresa Mawn wandered to a nearby pool where they found the girl struggling to stay afloat.  If the boys hadn't acted quickly, this heroic rescue story would have had a much different ending, and for that they are October's Hometown Heroes!

Olsen Rhatigan
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Shaker students Gerard Rhatigan and Ben Olsen, along with Ben’s mother Patricia, searched the neighborhood and found Teresa in a nearby pool, struggling to stay afloat. With the help od Ben's mother Patricia, they were able to save her life by pulling her from the water, just moments before the unthinkable could happen. The local police and town supervisors recently recognized Ben and Gerard for their heroics, but as you'll hear in this phone call, it's not about the praise.  That was the furthest thing on their minds, they just wanted to help find this little girl.  Great work by some fine young gentlemen and one very proud mama!

All throughout 2017-18, we will be recognizing one “hero” per month based on their inspirational feats, work helping their neighbors, and everyday passion. If you would like to nominate a Hometown Hero that we can honor next month, please click here.

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