Robert C. Moore of Bellaire has been recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard for assisting a motorist in distress at the Lynchburg Ferry Terminal in Baytown.
Capt. Jason E. Smith, commander of the U.S. Coast Guard's Houston-Galveston Sector presented Moore with a Certificate of Merit for his quick response and selfless actions New Year's Eve.
After Moore and his wife, Karen, saw a vehicle drive off the Lynchburg Ferry landing and into the Houston Ship Channel, Moore jumped into the water and attempted to enter the car through the open trunk but was unable to access the main compartment. As the car then turned nearly vertical and began to sink, Moore signaled to the 64-year-old driver to try rolling down a window. After the vehicle completely submerged, the driver surfaced and Moore pulled him to the ferry landing where onlookers helped pull the pair out of the water.
“It is my distinct honor to present this Certificate of Merit to Mr. Moore for his brave and selfless actions which helped save a man’s life,” Smith said. “The Coast Guard expresses its utmost gratitude for the actions of Mr. Moore and praises his attentiveness and swift response that day.”
Moore's wife and children, Alex, Ellen, Levi and Mitchell, were on hand for the presentation.