> At a Glance
> – Dunkin’ surprised Gloucester County officers with free Eagles playoff tickets
> – The officers rescued a 13-year-old boy who fell through ice in Woolwich Township
> – The boy visited the station to thank his rescuers
> – Why it matters: A community shows gratitude for life-saving heroism on Law Enforcement Appreciation Day
A dramatic ice rescue in Woolwich Township led to an unexpected thank-you for Gloucester County officers on Law Enforcement Appreciation Day.
The Rescue
Last weekend, officers responded to a child who had fallen through a frozen body of water. Sgt. Joseph Rieger described the scene:
> “As soon as he started screaming that he couldn’t feel his hands, I just went out there and tried to go get him.”
The boy couldn’t hold the rescue rope because his hands were too cold. Rieger went into the water, grabbed him, and helped break a path back to safety.
Key rescue moments:
- Officers threw a rope, but the boy’s frozen hands couldn’t grip it
- Rieger entered the water and lifted the child onto the ice
- No injuries occurred during the rescue
- The 13-year-old is now safe and recovering
The Thank-You
On Friday morning, a Dunkin’ representative visited the Gloucester County police department and presented officers with free tickets to Sunday’s Eagles playoff game against the 49ers.
Sgt. Rieger reacted to the surprise gift:
> “This is my job. It was what I signed up to do so getting this kind of attention, I’m not used to it. I’m very appreciative and very excited.”
Message to the Public
Officers urge everyone to stay off frozen bodies of water. The rescued boy visited the station this week to express his gratitude.
Sgt. Rieger said of the visit:
> “It was awesome. It was nice to see that he was safe. He learned his lesson. He was very appreciative.”
Key Takeaways
- Gloucester County officers saved a 13-year-old from icy waters
- Dunkin’ recognized their bravery with Eagles playoff tickets
- The rescued boy personally thanked his rescuers
- Officers remind residents to avoid walking on ice
The community celebration highlights how local businesses and residents can honor everyday heroes.
