The Marshfield Selectmen held a virtual commendation ceremony to recognize Harbormaster Michael DiMeo and Assistant Harbormaster Chuck Matter.
On January 5, they rescued two surfers in Green Harbor, about 200 yards offshore. They battled winds of 20 MPH and waves of 10 to 12 feet.
Police Chief Phil Tavares says numerous people called 911 just before sunset to report the incident.
“This incident shows both officers are an asset to this department and are worthy of a commendation,” said Tavares. “There is without a doubt in my mind whatsoever that these two officers saved the lives of two people on that day. The conditions were absolutely treacherous, I don’t think the video fully shows the extent of how bad the conditions were that day.”
DiMeo says their training kicked in, and he’s glad there was a positive outcome.
“We couldn’t come in between them and the beach because of the water depth, the waves were building because the tide was going out. We had to pick and choose the right window to do so,” said DiMeo, who guided the boat backwards to start the rescue.
“They were probably 50 feet off the side of the boat. Chuck made a great toss, which split both of them down the middle. They both grabbed the rescue line and he pulled them in.”
DiMeo said they had to slowly maneuver in the waves, and used the outboard propellers to keep the surfers away from the engine. They were safely brought back and were treated by the Fire Department.
“You guys did a great job, putting yourselves at a huge risk to get out there,” said Selectmen Chair Mike Bradley.
“We recently upgraded this boat. As Mike, we also call him the ‘Granthunter,’ finds incredible grants for these vessels. Without the equipment, without the staff, without Assistant Harbormaster Chuck Matter, you wouldn’t have gotten it done.”
DiMeo had thanks for Town Meeting voters for their years of support, who approved purchases for gear and a new facility.
“This is the equipment that we need to actually do our jobs, and luckily it paid off for us. We were able to save two lives,” said DiMeo. “We’ll continue to provide the highest level of service to Marshfield and surrounding towns and help out where we can. We all work together.”
In addition to the Selectmen commendation, State Senator Patrick O’Connor presented DiMeo and Matter with a citation from the State Senate.
“The experience that [DiMeo] brings from the United States Coast Guard, just top-notch, he’s a world-class guy, Chuck the same, his whole team,” said O’Connor. “Very proud of the work that you guys were able to do, but not surprised given how great of an operation you guys run over there.”
A formal commendation ceremony will be held at a later date. Video can be found on the Marshfield Community Television YouTube channel.
Marshfield Harbormaster Michael DiMeo during the annual Blessing of the Fleet on July 26, 2020. Photo credit: Lenny Rowe.
The surfers were rescued from about 50 feet away. Photo courtesy of Marshfield Community Television.
