[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 29 (Wednesday, February 12, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E117]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                          HONORING SAM YERIAN

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. LISA C. McCLAIN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 12, 2025

  Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
extraordinary bravery and selflessness of Sam Yerian, a young man whose 
quick thinking and decisive action saved three lives on June 12, 2024. 
At just 16 years old, Sam demonstrated remarkable courage, risking his 
own safety to help others in distress. Without his actions, a 
devastating tragedy would have occurred.
  That day, Sam heard cries for help from Deer Lake and immediately 
sprang into action. Grabbing a life jacket, he jumped on his jet ski 
and raced to save two children drowning in the water nearly 200 yards 
from shore. Fighting against wind and waves, he pulled both children--
neither wearing life jackets--onto his jet ski, preventing disaster.
  As he made his way to shore, the children pointed to their 
grandfather, who had jumped in to save them but was now exhausted and 
barely afloat. Realizing the urgency, Sam made a critical decision--he 
removed his own life jacket and gave it to the man, ensuring he had a 
chance at survival before bringing the children to safety.
  Sam then returned for the grandfather, who was unresponsive in the 
water. With incredible strength, he pulled him onto the jet ski with 
assistance onshore, got him to waiting emergency responders. After 
several days in the hospital, he made a full recovery--an outcome that 
would not have been possible without Sam's courage.
  Beyond this act of heroism, Sam is a dedicated student-athlete and 
servant leader. Now 17, he is a junior at Clarkston High School, 
competing on the Junior Varsity Golf Team and the Varsity Tennis Team, 
which reached the State Championship last year. Just a day after he 
saved 3 lives on Deer Lake, he traveled to Puerto Rico for a service 
trip to build homes for those in need, further demonstrating his 
commitment to helping others. He also mentors younger students as a 
Link Leader and volunteers with Xceptional Heroes, an organization 
supporting young adults with cognitive and intellectual disabilities, 
earning multiple Pride in the Pack nominations for his kindness and 
leadership.
  Mr. Speaker, Sam Yerian's heroism on June 12, 2024, was a reflection 
of his character--brave, selfless, and committed to serving others. His 
actions prevented what could have been a terrible loss, and his example 
continues to inspire his community.

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