Quick Thinking and Bravery Prevent Disaster on the Water
On a serene summer afternoon in Gilford, New Hampshire, an ordinary day quickly turned into a thrilling rescue mission on Lake Winnipesaukee in 2024. The tranquil waters of Smith’s Cove became the scene of a dramatic event that showcased the bravery and quick thinking of a local teenager, Brady Procon.
A Sailing Lesson Gone Awry
The incident began during a sailing lesson conducted by a local sailing association. The instructor, while demonstrating a maneuver using a tennis ball, found himself unexpectedly tossed into the water. The mishap occurred when one of the children’s boats tipped over, causing its mast to strike the instructor’s throttle. This accidental impact sent the instructor flying overboard, leaving the boat spiraling out of control in the wake zone.
The Call to Action
Seventeen-year-old Brady was relaxing on his porch when he heard his father, Jeremy Procon, shout about the runaway boat. Without hesitation, Brady and his father sprang into action. They quickly assessed the situation and ensured the safety of the children involved in the sailing lesson. Their neighbor, Justin King, also joined the effort, devising a plan to bring the unmanned boat to a halt.
A Daring Rescue
Justin King offered his Jet Ski to Brady, positioning it close enough to the runaway boat for Brady to make a daring leap. With adrenaline pumping and little time to think, Brady jumped from the Jet Ski onto the out-of-control vessel. His quick actions paid off as he managed to grab the throttle and bring the boat to a stop, preventing what could have been a disastrous collision with the nearby docks or homes.
Reflecting on Bravery
In the aftermath of the incident, Brady reflected on his actions with humility. “I don’t know. I didn’t really think, it just came to me,” he said. Despite being hailed as a hero by locals, Brady downplayed his bravery, attributing his actions to instinct and the need to protect others.
The fearless teen, who is set to join the Navy in the fall, demonstrated qualities of courage and decisiveness that align with his future military career. “To be in any military branch, you have to have bravery, I guess. I wouldn’t even count what I did as brave, but some sort of don’t think, just do,” Brady remarked.
Community Pride
The community of Gilford, New Hampshire, takes pride in Brady’s heroic deed. His quick thinking and willingness to jump into action not only saved the day but also prevented potential harm to property and people. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of community spirit and the extraordinary acts that ordinary individuals are capable of when faced with unexpected challenges.
As Brady prepares for his future in the Navy, his actions on Lake Winnipesaukee will be remembered as a testament to his character and the bravery that lies within.
Sources:
- https://youtu.be/n2d4GvWn1SY?si=14e-SYXnkl9c3CBW
- https://www.wmur.com/article/teenager-jumps-onto-runaway-boat-lake-winnipesaukee-nh/61511204
- https://nypost.com/2024/07/08/us-news/new-hampshire-teen-brady-procon-heroically-jumps-on-and-stops-runaway-boat-on-lake-winnipesaukee/
- https://youtu.be/3zxj2d25nIc?si=ufl7V1TxpmCUjejN
- https://chatgpt.com/
- https://readloud.net/