For Immediate Release

Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2019

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: [email protected]

Rockland Fourth Grader’s Heroic Actions Honored by Police and Fire Departments

ROCKLAND — Principal Marilyn Smith is pleased to announce that a fourth grade student at the Stewart Esten Elementary School in Rockland was honored yesterday for his heroic efforts in calling 911 when his sister was having a medical emergency.

Joshua Joseph was recognized as a Rockland Hero by the Rockland Police Department and Rockland Fire Department and was awarded two plaques by the departments to commemorate his quick and life saving actions.

On Dec. 9, Joseph was being babysat along with his sister by their grandmother, when his 6-year-old sister began to suffer a medical episode. 

Joseph’s grandmother does not speak English, so the fourth grader took it upon himself to call 911 and speak to the dispatcher who was able to get emergency personnel to their home to assist his sister. Joseph stayed on the phone with the dispatcher until medical personnel arrived. She was taken to the hospital and has since been released and is now doing okay.

Joshua’s mother believes that her son’s actions may have saved his sister’s life. On Tuesday, Joseph was recognized at an assembly in front of the entire Esten School. His mother, father and grandmother were also in attendance.

Members of the police and fire departments, including Fire Chief Scott Duffey and Police Lieutenant Nicholas Zeoli, shook Joseph’s hand and commended him on a job well done.

“What an inspiring message to show to all of our students, that if someone is in need of help, you jump into action and try your best to help,” Principal Smith said. “We are all so proud of Joshua and it was really great to see him be recognized for his actions.”

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