Councilwoman Erica Ávila took the opportunity to recognize and make everyone aware of an incredibly special resident in the community of Waterstone, which she represents; District 5. It was her privilege to honor a hero for his extraordinary actions as she presented the HERO Award to Mr. Allen Caldwell.
Captain Owens, Homestead Police Department told the story to the chamber audience about the remarkable actions of Mr. Caldwell. On January 25th ,2023, Mr. Caldwell witnessed an accident on the Fl. Turnpike, northbound at 288th Street, as he was also driving at the same time, in the same area, northbound on the Fl Turnpike. The driver had lost control of their car, crashed through the barrier fence, and ended up in a lake on the west side of the Waterstone community. He saw the life-threatening accident as it was happening, in real-time. Mr. Caldwell pulled off to the side of the road and did not hesitate for a moment, and without regard for his own safety, jumped into the water. He was able to open the driver-side door and pull the driver out of the car and they both were able to make their way back to shore safely and without injury.
At the presentation, Mr. Caldwell, a retired military veteran, spoke about being a veteran and what that training meant to him, that he had no hesitation about jumping into the water and performing the rescue. A true act of heroism by a resident of the City of Homestead.