The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) has announced Officers Makiem Miller and Ian Williamson of the West Haven (CT) Police Department as their Officers of the Month for June 2024. Officers Miller and Williamson were selected for their actions when they saved the lives of two young children in a critical and dangerous situation.
In the early morning of June 22, 2024, officers spotted an SUV parked on a beach in West Haven and heard “significant screaming” from the water. As they approached, the officers observed a man attempting to drown his two small children. As the officers entered the water, the man continued to drift further away with the two children while screaming, “Stay back,” and it became obvious that he was deliberately drowning his children.
Recognizing the immediate danger, Officers Miller and Williamson, along with rescuers on a fire boat, ventured nearly 100 yards from shore to rescue the children and bring them safely to land. Lifesaving measures were administered, and the children were transported to a hospital where they remained in intensive care. The children were treated in the Intensive Care Unit and were released a couple days later.
“These officers are heroes, and their actions serve to highlight the countless acts of valor which often go unnoticed and without the recognition or fanfare such acts deserve,” said William Alexander, CEO of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. “We are humbled and proud to honor Officers Miller and Williamson as our Officers of the Month for June 2024.”
The Officer of the Month Award Program is sponsored by the Police Unity Tour and recognizes federal, state, and local officers who distinguish themselves through exemplary law enforcement service and devotion to duty.