Two Gage County Deputies, Sergeant recognized for dog rescue

BEATRICE – The Gage County Board today recognized deputies Tom Smith, Paxton Diehl and Sergeant John Patsch for their roles in saving a family’s German Shepherd recently, who broke through an icy pond near Pickrell.

Sheriff Millard Gustafson spoke of the officers who went beyond normal duties.  "The actions of all the deputies during this incident reflect positively on themselves, the Gage County Sheriff's Office and the entire law enforcement profession. They all went above and beyond the call of duty."

Deputy Tom Smith observed the German shepherd, mostly submerged in water and clinging to the edge of the ice approximately 15 yards from the shoreline. With near freezing temperatures, he used a set of borrowed chest waders and waded into the ice with a hammer, smashing his way through the ice, eventually freeing the dog.

After saving the dog, Smith was evaluated and treated for cold-related issues by Deputy Diehl,…a combat medic for the Nebraska Army National Guard. Smith was evaluated by Pickrell EMS on site and able return to duty. Patsch handled the equipment used to aid in the rescue.

The dog was returned to its owner.