Islip lifeguards save distressed sailors

Islip Town supervisor Angie Carpenter and the Islip Town Board honored chief lifeguard Daniel Gschwind and lifeguards Caden Teirney and Teague Nolan at the Aug. 13 Town Board Meeting for rescuing sailors whose sunfish sailboat had recently capsized in the Great South Bay.

On Thursday, Aug. 5, the lifeguards, who were stationed at Islip Town Beach, saw a sunfish sailboat in distress in the water just off the swimming area. At the direction of Gschwind, Teirney and Nolan swam out on their kayak and rescue board to aid the young sailors as their vessel capsized.

“Caden, an Islip native, had recently completed our town waterfront lifeguard course earlier this summer, demonstrating his commitment to serving our community,” noted Carpenter. “Teague, hailing from West Islip, comes from a family dedicated to water safety. He is the youngest of three siblings who all work as Town of Islip lifeguards.”

Teirney and Nolan and, both 16 years old and in their first year on duty, were selected by Gschwind due to their outstanding performance in training exercises during the season. The young sailors were safely rescued.

“The town board and I are proud to commend our Town of Islip lifeguards for their exceptional service and bravery, as demonstrated in the heroic rescue on Aug. 5. This incident emphasizes the vital role our lifeguards play in ensuring the safety of our community. Their quick and courageous response not only highlights their training and dedication, but also reflects the high standards of lifeguarding at Islip Town beaches and pools. We are deeply grateful for their commitment and proud of their exemplary service,” said Carpenter.