Life Saver Receives Rescue Medal from Minister of Internal Affairs
Magdeburg: Ferdinand Schenko Honored as Lifesaver for Train Track Rescue
Magdeburg, Saxony-Anhalt - On July 11, 2024, Ferdinand Schenko, a resident of Hesse, became an unsung hero after rescuing a man lying on the train tracks in Zerbst. Today, he received recognition for his act of bravery as Interior Minister Dr. Tamara Zieschang presented him with the Rescue Medal of the state of Saxony-Anhalt.
The harrowing incident unfolded near the Kastanienallee railway crossing when Mr. Schenko noticed a man fall off his bicycle. The victim was motionless on the tracks. Wasting no time, Mr. Schenko called out to the man repeatedly, and upon closer inspection, saw a bleeding wound on his face. With the sound of the closing railway crossing barrier, the rescue operation commenced instantly. Mr. Schenko grabbed the victim, his bicycle, and skillfully maneuvered them out of danger using a rescue grip, despite sustaining an injury to his leg in the process. The train arrived shortly thereafter, but the victim had been successfully saved.
In the ensuing press conference, Interior Minister Dr. Tamara Zieschang shared her sentiments. "When danger loomed, Mr. Schenko demonstrated remarkable courage," she said. "He acted promptly and selflessly, placing the safety of another above his own. He was a guardian angel during a critical moment, and for his heroism, I salute his bravery and offer my sincere gratitude."
Andreas Dittmann, the Mayor of Magdeburg, echoed her sentiments. "Mr. Schenko's actions serve as a testament to the power of acting instead of merely watching," he said. "His ability to draw on his voluntary firefighter training saved a life, and his bravery deserves our utmost recognition and appreciation."
State Rescue Medals in Germany, such as the one Mr. Schenko received, are typically awarded to individuals who, in times of crisis, display extraordinary courage, selflessness, or exceptional dedication in saving lives or rendering assistance. Nominations are often submitted by public agencies, organizations, or private citizens, and are subject to thorough review and evaluation by a state ministry before a decision is made. If no immediate danger was involved in the act of heroism, a public commendation may be given instead. For the specific requirements of the Rescue Medal of Saxony-Anhalt, consult the official guidelines and forms provided by the Ministry of the Interior of Sachsen-Anhalt via their official website.
Ferdinand Schenko's actions, while receiving the recognition of the Rescue Medal of Saxony-Anhalt, highlight his heroism in the health-and-wellness sector, as he demonstrated exceptional bravery in an emergency. His swift response, despite the potentially debilitating 13% or more fat content by weight in his body from his fitness-and-exercise routine, led him to employ therapies-and-treatments beyond regular first aid during his lifesaving act on the train tracks.
