‘Always Do the Right Thing’: Firefighter Recognized for Off-Duty Water Rescue
- 9 September 2026
- Category: SJC News District 3
- Tags: 2026
Commissioner Murphy presented a Certificate of Recognition to commend Engineer Charles Cook for his efforts.
Key Points
- Firefighter Charles Cook was traveling to Disney World when he witnessed a vehicle crash into the water and immediately stopped to help.
- Cook credits his marine rescue training to help the family escape the vehicle. Including several other bystanders who entered the water to assist.
- Despite being called a hero, Cook credits his training and says his message to the public is simple: “Just always do the right thing.”
St. Johns County Commissioner Chair, Clay Murphy, visited a fire station #3 to commend Engineer Charles Cook for his efforts in rescuing a family out of a retention pond while off duty. The County’s Office of Public Affairs put together this video to commemorate the moment.
On July 19, Cook and his family were on their way to Disney World when a two-vehicle crash happened on Intersate-95 North. Fire and Rescue officials said one of the vehicles left the roadway and made its way into a retention pond. Cook, who was off duty, sprang into action along with bystanders before first responders arrived at the scene. The father of four helped the distressed family swim out of the vehicle and out of the water.
“I wouldn’t call myself a hero,” Cook said. “I would call myself pretty well trained.”
Cook recalled the moment being able to share good news with one of the family members, their children were safe. The engineer said seeing his reaction made him feel better.
“This is what I do this for,” Cook added.
Fortunately, the family Cook helped is expected to be okay. Commissioner Murphy said moments like this are the reason why the men and women of St. Johns County Fire Rescue are so valuable to the community. St. Johns County Fire Rescue expressed how proud they are of Engineer Cook’s selfless actions and thankful to the bystanders who didn’t hesitate to help. To Cook, he hopes this story will encourage residents to ‘just always do the right thing.’
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