News

County resident awarded Effingham County Sheriff’s Office Distinguished Act Award

At Monday’s County Board meeting, Sheriff Kuhns presented the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office Distinguished Act Award to county resident, Travis Macklin, for his heroic efforts assisting a stranded motorist due to flooded roadway conditions on April 2, 2024.

Sheriff Kuhns described Mr. Macklin’s immediate response upon seeing a cell phone light out his kitchen window and investigating the situation to find a motorist on top of her vehicle in flooded waters.  The motorist was unable to swim, so Travis swam out in treacherous waters to rescue the woman while emergency personnel were in route to assist.  Sheriff Kuhns commented on the bravery and appreciation for Travis in his selfless endeavor.

Chairman, Josh Douthit, inquired if Mr. Macklin had any words to share.  Travis stated that he frequents that area often and is used to navigating the flooding, so he just reacted when he saw the stranded motorist.  The County Board, county leaders, and visitors in attendance applauded Travis for being a true citizen for his fellow neighbors of Effingham County.