MANCHESTER, NH — In recognition of courageous and action in a moment of human compassion, Kiwanis of Manchester has named Desmond Powell this year’s recipient of the Robert P. Connelly Medal of Heroism.
On March 3 the trustees of the Kiwanis International Foundation announced the award, to be presented April 18, which recognizes “… an individual who has risked or given his or her life to save someone else.”
On November 21, as he was walking home from a Monarch’s game, Desmond spotted a man sitting on the railing of the Granite Street Bridge.
The man was contemplating suicide.
Without regard for his own safety, Desmond engaged the man in conversation. He learned that the man was a heroin user and depressed over his condition. With the help of a passerby, Desmond convinced the distraught man to come off the bridge’s railing. He treated him to a sandwich and coffee at the Dunkin Donuts nearby and contacted the police. The man thanked Desmond for “saving his life” and called him “a hero.”
Considering the environment — a suicidal heroin user ensconced on a bridge railing far above the cold, rushing waters of the Merrimack River below —Desmond clearly put his life at risk. He had no idea if the man had a weapon or might try to reach out and take him over the side, as well.
Desmond was honored recently by Manchester Mayor Ted Gatsas and the city’s Board of School Committee for his “…courage and caring.”
Desmond, 17, a West High senior, is described as “a leader” and as one possessing a “strong moral compass,” by Christopher Motika, West’s Principal.
And Elizabeth Kerwan, a Key Club Facility Advisor at West, says Desmond’s leadership and involvement are a hallmark of all he does.
“Desmond participates fully in every task he takes on. Currently, he is juggling senior class office, Key Club, winter track and is a coach for Unified Basketball – a program for special education students — along with being a strong student. He wants to continue on to college to study sports marketing. He has held leadership roles including football team captain, advisory board for the senior class and is a Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps cadet,” said Kerwan.
Desmond will receive the Connelly Award, along with a special scholarship from Kiwanis of Manchester at the annual April 18 Key Club Recognition Night.
Follow the link for more information on the Robert P. Connelly Medal of Heroism.
