BASKING RIDGE, NJ — A Ridge High School student was honored for his heroic actions in saving a woman from an aggressive groundhog.
At the Sept. 10 Bernards Township Committee meeting, Mayor Jennifer Asay honored Caleb Morris with a proclamation recognizing his actions “to serve as a model for your peers to see what great looks like.”
“You truly were a hero. Many times when we are faced with danger we don’t know what to do and you instinctively did the right thing,” said Asay.
On July 19, a woman was confronted by an aggressive groundhog on the trail behind the Bernards Township Police Department.
Morris, who happened to be nearby, immediately recognized the danger and did not hesitate to offer his help.
“Caleb Morris displayed remarkable courage and quick thinking in coming to the aid of the individual in distress; and his actions exemplify the highest standards of community spirit and bravery,” according to the proclamation.
Committeewoman Ana Duarte McCarthy noted that not many people would jump into action and may instead record the event to post on social media.
“What you did was not think about that,” said Duarte McCarthy. “You had the presence of mind, you exhibited bravery and just stepped in to help. That just demonstrates that you have wonderful character and your family here tonight has — I am sure — instilled some of those values and it is something everyone can be proud of.”
“You are an asset to our community, you’re a role model to your peers,” continued McCarthy.
Committeeman Andrew McNally also praised Morris’ actions.
“Caleb thank you so much for your courage and stepping forward,” said McNally. “It’s remarkable that in an instance like this, something you weren’t expecting, you stepped forward in the moment. And that shows really something special.”
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