A hero's honor

Public Works Department employee Jason Schmidt received a citizen citation certificate at the Longboat Key Town Commission's Monday, April 15, workshop for helping to escort three people out of a Land’s End home that was destroyed by a fire March 21.

Schmidt saw heavy smoke coming from the home, owned by real-estate magnate Michael Saunders’ sister, Joan Bergstrom, and rushed to the scene to ensure Bergstrom, her daughter and grandson were out before Longboat Key Fire Rescue crews arrived.

When asked to say a few words, Schmidt said, “I'm not looking for any recognition. I just did what I hope any person would do if they were in that same situation.”

Schmidt’s proud grandma, Jan Schmidt, attended the meeting.