Scout receives heroism award for real life rescue

REAL HERO- Kurtis Freedland, 14, of Hidden Hills, receives the Boy Scouts of America heroism award for rescuing a 13-year-old friend who was pulled under a strong riptide in Malibu. Kurtis is currently working on his Eagle Scout project.

Kurtis C. Freedland, 14, of Hidden Hills, was awarded the Boy Scouts of America Heroism Award at a Boy Scout National Court of Honor. Ross Harrop, executive of the Western Los Angeles County Council, presented the award after describing Kurtis' heroic efforts in saving the life of one of his friends.

In June 2005, 13-year-old Kevin Scaringi was body surfing about 50 yards off shore at Malibu Beach when a large wave forced him under the water and into a riptide, carrying him even farther from shore.

Kurtis, a First Class Scout who was 12 at the time, swam to Kevin, pulled him from under the waves, kept his head above water, swam parallel to the shore until out of the riptide and then brought him safely back to the beach.

The National Court of Honor recommended the Heroism Award be presented to Kurtis for practicing his Scouting skills and ideals.

Kurtis is currently working on his Eagle Scout project and is one merit badge away from achieving the rank of Eagle Scout.