Featured News - Current News - Archived News - News Categories
Girl Scouts of Western New York Press Release
Girl Scouts of Western New York is proud to announce that eight of our remarkable Girl Scouts, along with one from Girl Scouts of Central Maryland, have received one of the highest honors in Girl Scouting: the Medal of Honor. These extraordinary young individuals were recognized for their bravery, quick thinking, and decisive action in a life-threatening emergency while traveling abroad in Switzerland.
The Medal of Honor is awarded to Girl Scouts who have performed acts of heroism beyond the expectations of their age and training, saving or attempting to save a life. These young leaders demonstrated immense courage and teamwork, embodying the values of the Girl Scout promise and law.
Honorees include:
The heroic event took place at the summit of Vogilisiberg in Adelboden, Switzerland, near the Girl Scouts’ World Center, Our Chalet. While on a free day during their trip, the group encountered a man experiencing cardiac arrest. The girls, who had all completed first aid and CPR training through Girl Scouts, along with their leaders, sprang into action. Despite language barriers and the challenges of their remote location, the team worked together to secure an automated external defibrillator (AED), contact emergency services, and assist in saving the man’s life. Their preparedness, determination, and calm under pressure were instrumental in the positive outcome.
Girl Scouts of Western New York CEO Cara Biddlecom said, “These Girl Scouts have set a profound example of what it means to be prepared, resourceful and compassionate. Their actions reflect the highest ideals of the Girl Scout movement and make all of us incredibly proud. They are true role models for their peers and a testament to the lifechanging experiences and skills gained through Girl Scouting.”
The Medal of Honor pin is a distinguished symbol of this accomplishment and is worn with pride on the Girl Scout uniform, signifying the courage and heroism these young leaders exemplify.
For more information about the lifesaving actions of these incredible Girl Scouts, or to learn more about joining or supporting Girl Scouts of Western New York, visit www.gswny.org.
Girl Scouts of Western New York (GSWNY) serves youth and adult volunteers across nine counties, with service centers in Buffalo, Jamestown, Lockport, Niagara Falls and Rochester. Through hands-on experiences, participants develop the skills and confidence to lead and build a better world. To learn more about volunteering, donating or joining, visit www.gswny.org or call 1-888-837-6410.