IBERIA PARISH, La, - Civilians and fire district personnel were recognized Thursday for their hard work on the rescue efforts made during Hurricane Barry.
Eight people with disabilities were rescued from a van that got stuck in high water.
Four civilians and 11 firefighters were awarded the Iberia Parish Fire District's Medal of Valor at district’s training facility on September 5.
The rescue happened on Sunday, July 14, just before noon in Iberia Parish. Fire District #1 and Coteau Volunteer Fire Department were dispatched to a Louisiana medical truck submerged in water with people possibly trapped inside.
The vehicle was an Arc of Acadiana transportation bus that was initially transporting people to a safer location during the storm. The bus had become submerged in a roadside ditch that was around 10' deep and 20' wide between the Coteau and Jefferson Island exits along Hwy 90. The entire front of the bus was underwater, according to officials.
Firefighters arrived and began a water rescue as the bus was being overtaken by water.
Officials say that rescuers entered the submerged bus through its rear window and began removing occupants one by one.
Fire personnel on scene helped with medical assistance.
All passengers and the driver were safely rescued within 10 minutes. No serious injuries occurred.
