Langhorne, PA—Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-08) Tuesday evening presented the Carnegie Medal to Kristian Falkenstein of Newtown, PA.

“Kristian Falkenstein is nothing short of a hero,” said Fitzpatrick. “His valiant actions saved a life that day. I applaud Kristian for his bravery and willingness to take on significant risk in assistance of a fellow citizen.”

Kristian F. Falkenstein prevented a 32-year-old man from drowning in Belmar, New Jersey, on September 23, 2017. After seeing a man being swept out to sea, Kristian immediately swam out to save him. When Kristian reached him, he was barely above water.

Despite the waves and strong rip current, Kristian was able to keep him afloat for several minutes until two lifeguards and a responding police officer were able to swim out to them with flotation devices to assist until the Coast Guard arrived on the scene. Falkenstein and the victim were taken to a hospital. The man was not injured, but Falkenstein was treated for effects of near-drowning; he recovered.

Watch Rep. Fitzpatrick recognize Kristian Falkenstein on the House Floor HERE.

The Carnegie Medal is given throughout the United States and Canada to those who risk their lives to an extraordinary degree while saving or attempting to save the lives of others. The Carnegie Hero Fund Commission announced Kristian Falkenstein, alongside 19 others in their June hero class. Commission Chair Mark Laskow said each of the awardees or their survivors will also receive a financial grant.

Read the full writeup on Kristian Falkenstein’s act of bravery HERE.

Throughout the 114 years since the Fund was established by Andrew Carnegie, $40.4 million has been given in one-time grants, scholarship aid, death benefits, and continuing assistance.

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