FDNY Chief Receives PETA Award for Kayaking to Goose’s Rescue

Off-Duty First Responder Saves Animal From Chilling Fate

For Immediate Release:
January 21, 2015

Contact:
Alexis Sadoti 202-483-7382

A Compassionate Action Award is on its way from PETA to New York City Fire Department Battalion Chief Dan Murray, who recently made an unusual rescue during his off hours: He reportedly navigated his kayak through heavy commercial ship traffic in the middle of the choppy, freezing Hudson River to retrieve an injured snow goose who had been left behind by her migrating flock and spotted by a concerned bystander.

The goose is now with wildlife rehabilitators and is receiving expert care for her injuries. To honor Murray’s bravery, PETA is sending him a box of delicious vegan chocolates.

“By undertaking this harrowing rescue, this firefighter proved himself one of ‘New York’s Bravest’ and one of New York’s kindest,” says PETA Senior Vice President Daphna Nachminovitch. “PETA hopes his heroic act will inspire others to keep an eye out and always come to the aid of animals in need.”

PETA will also be sending Chief Murray a copy of The Engine 2 Diet, a Texas firefighter’s 28-day plan for staying in prime firefighting shape by eating plant-based meals.

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—offers tips for helping wildlife on its website.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.