LONG BEACH ISLAND – A Barnegat Light Beach Patrol lifeguard has been awarded the United States Lifesaving Association’s Medal of Valor for his role in a dangerous rescue at the Barnegat Inlet South Jetty in Ocean County.
22-year-old Hugh Shields earned the organization’s highest distinction for actions taken on the night of Aug. 18, 2024, when powerful surf and a full-moon tide left two fishermen stranded atop a signal tower at the end of the jetty. Waves crashing over the rocks below made the situation increasingly hazardous.
The U.S. Lifesaving Association said Shields responded with the Barnegat Light Volunteer Fire Company Water Rescue Team. After launching from a rescue watercraft in heavy seas, Shields entered the water, fought strong currents and climbed the slick, wave-battered jetty to reach the men.
Life jackets delivered by the rescue crew were secured to the fishermen, and as conditions deteriorated further, Shields led them to a higher position on the tower where they could safely await air support. With a watercraft rescue no longer feasible, a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter was summoned.
Shields stayed with the fishermen during the helicopter operation, assisting with coordination and supporting the rescue swimmer during the hoist. Once both men were safely lifted from the tower, Shields swam back to the rescue vessel through rough surf.
The Medal of Valor is awarded twice each year to lifeguards who place themselves at exceptional risk while attempting to save others. Association officials said Shields’ composure, physical stamina and decisive actions under extreme conditions reflected the highest standards of the lifesaving profession.
