Rare posthumous honor for Cynthia Woods hero
by Chris Paschenko, Daily News on 20 Jul 2009
Roger Stone, who lost his life while rescuing his students SW
The safety officer heralded as a hero for giving his life to help rescue sailing students aboard a vessel bound for Veracruz, Mexico, will be honored by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Roger Stone, 53, died after the Cynthia Woods capsized June 6, 2008, south of Matagorda. He was trapped below deck as he pushed two students to safety. The boat was operated by a crew from Texas A&M at Galveston.
The Coast Guard at 2 p.m. July 27 will award Stone posthumously with the Gold Lifesaving Medal, which is awarded only to military personnel or U.S. citizens who rescue others from perils at sea.
Linda Stone said as more information is uncovered, the family will be able to better understand what happened during the 2008 Regatta de Amigos, a race to Veracruz.
“My children and I look forward to the upcoming recognition of Roger,” Stone said in a statement prepared by her attorney, Randall O. Sorrels. “We have known all along Roger was a hero and this prestigious recognition further validates his bravery and sacrifice.”
Since its authorization by Congress in 1874, the Gold Lifesaving Medal has been awarded to fewer than 700 people.
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