Recognizing a hometown hero

The Port Washington Common Council looked on Tuesday as Mayor Marty Becker (left) presented a proclamation and lifesaver award to Ben Kasdorf for his “quick thinking and selfless actions” in rescuing a drowning man who fell into the harbor С in an area near the Port power plant shown on the painting behind aldermen С on July 16. “We appreciate what you did,” Becker told Kasdorf. Kasdorf was skateboarding with his dog when he heard people yelling for help and saw Jameco King Jr. of Saukville struggling in the water. Kasdorf, a certified lifeguard, jumped in and pulled King above the water and swam toward the wall. When he tired, he yelled for help and Jude Brobst, a member of the Cedarburg High School swim and dive team, dove in. They supported King until police and fire arrived and helped them out of the water. Becker also issued a proclamation and award to Brobst, who was on vacation and couldn’t attend the meeting.                                                                                                        Photo by Sam Arendt