Fresno County Deputy receives award for a daring rescue of man trapped in raging floodwaters

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Inside a truck submerged in raging floodwater was a cold 76-year-old helpless man who was trapped-- Fresno County Sheriff's Deputy Corey Holston responded.

"You really have so much adrenaline; you are really not thinking about anything else but just trying to help him and doing it in a safe manner."

The victim had already been in the truck an hour-- the water was ice cold and the deputy knew he had to act fast.

Deputy Holston has swift water rescue training, so he and others made a plan. They worried at any moment the truck could be washed further downstream.

"Then I basically walked out, partially out to the truck and had to swim the rest of the way out. The water was flowing very quickly, something we hadn't experienced before in Fresno."

Once he reached the truck Deputy Holston broke out the passenger side window. He harnessed a cinch collar on the victim and gave him a life jacket. Then rescuers on the shore pulled the driver to safety.

Deputy Holston was the best one for the rescue, in part because stands six foot nine.

"My height definitely was an advantage in this situation, like I said I was able to walk part way across the creek and then I was able to stand next to the truck."

Thursday, the 13 year veteran was honored for his courage in saving the man and putting his own life at great risk. He tearfully accepted the award and extended his gratitude to the others who also rushed to assist.

"I'd also like to thank the team-- Deputy Peterson for the words of encouragement. Cal Fire, EMS, Star Rescue, Sanger Fire, Sequoia Safety Council."

The man Deputy Holston saved was not at the awards ceremony, but he already told the deputy how grateful he was for all he did to get him out of the water.

Over the years, Deputy Holston has pulled many people out of rivers and lakes, most of the time during recovery missions. Only this time it was a happy ending.

"I've waited for years and years to do something like that and it's awesome."