|
Home Search |
Published on Friday, June 25, 2004
in the Miami Herald
Pembroke Pines police detectives Kenneth Witte and Bernie Kraemer were on their way to a meeting about gangs May 19, but they didn't make it on time.
They ended up diving into a canal to save the driver of a Mack truck that had veered off Interstate 75 and plunged into the water just north of Griffin Road.
For their heroism, Witte and Kraemer will receive a certificate of appreciation from the Florida Highway Patrol at 11:30 a.m. today.
''We were told originally it was going to be a picnic,'' Witte said. ``It's really nice to be recognized by other agencies, but I didn't do this for recognition. I did this because it was my job.''
FHP Capt. John M. Roberts will present the certificates at the Troop L Davie station.
As the truck was sinking, two civilians joined Witte and Kraemer in the effort.
The driver emerged on his own, and the detectives helped pull him to safety.
The detectives, both members of the Broward Multi-Agency Gang Task Force, also will get gift certificates from Olive Garden, Red Lobster, Longhorn Steakhouse and TGI Friday's restaurants.