Last summer, a vessel with five people on board collided at a high rate of speed with the Nevada shoreline, only a few miles north of Cottonwood Cove Marina. The NPS was notified, however, the nearest Ranger was on a backcountry patrol at least one hour away by vehicle.

Employees from Forever Resorts' Cottonwood Cove Marina immediately responded from Cottonwood by vessel, and were the first to arrive at the chaotic accident scene. Throughout the remainder of the incident, the Cottonwood staff took charge and provided medical care, assisted with the transportation of the survivors, and also assisted with the salvage of the vessel.

"The general manager Tom Burnside and his staff demonstrated true courage and heroism. Tom never sought any compensation for the services his employees provided. He and his staff just did the right thing. Their willingness and readiness to respond to emergencies are a benefit to the National Park Service and its visiting public. Their actions represent the best in a cooperative relationship," said Superintendent Dickinson.

In March of this year, Bruce Reilly, Rex Forsgren, Jim Smith, Dennis Pambianco, Tom Burnside, Jack Kelley were recognized by Superintendent Dickinson when presented them with the National Park Service Search and Rescue (SAR) pin.