Milestone: State PUD honors Helvey
Published 1:30 am Wednesday, December 14, 2016
The Washington Public Utility Districts Association presented its annual awards recognizing the outstanding dedicated service and commitment of individuals serving PUDs at the organization’s Annual Conference on Dec. 1 in Vancouver. The association presents awards annually for lifetime achievement, commitment to public service and meritorious action in a life-threatening situation.
This year, Clallam County PUD journeyman lineman Joe Helvey was presented with the “Good Samaritan Award” for his quick actions which prevented a woman from jumping from a bridge.
On April 27, Helvey was about to drive across a recently completed bridge in Port Angeles when he noticed a young woman starting to climb over the railing. Helvey slammed on his breaks and quickly ran toward the woman. As he reached her, she was over the rail and hanging on but ready to let go. Helvey reached out and grabbed her wrist, pulling her to the sidewalk. Local law enforcement soon arrived to the scene to provide assistance.
Clallam County PUD journeyman lineman Joe Helvey, right, was presented the Good Samaritan Award by Washington Public Utility Districts Association President Dennis Reid and Pacific County PUD Commissioner Diana Thompson.
