Three conservation officers recognized by Minnesota DNR for life saving efforts

ST. PAUL, Minn. — Three conservation officers have been recognized by the Minnesota DNR for their life-saving efforts, two of whom are local to our area.

Officer Curtis Simonson of International Falls,  Officer Corey Sura of the Remer area, and Officer Nick Baum of Park Rapids.

All received lifesaving awards for their efforts over the last few months:

• Officer Simonson was recognized for his efforts in the search for Donald Larson, an elderly diabetic man missing for days. After joining the search, Simonson spotted tire tracks on a trail, which led him to Larson’s car with Larson lying in the mud behind it. Simonson called for an ambulance and transported him to safety. 
• Officer Corey Sura received his award for his actions on March 14 when he rescued two anglers who had fallen through the ice on their ATVs. Officer Sura was about 400 yards away and was able to gather safety equipment, and with the assistance of an angler on shore, was able to get them out safely.
• Also on March 14, Officer Nick Baum responded to a call for an angler who had fallen through the ice. When Baum arrived on the scene with other officers, one of them fell through the ice. Baum and other officers were then able to rescue the angler and the officer who had fallen through the ice.

“Conservation officers never know what the day will bring, but they are always ready when someone is facing a difficult situation and needs their help,” said Col. Rodmen Smith, director of the DNR Enforcement Division. “It’s a testament to our officers’ character and training that they’re willing and able to put others’ needs above their own.”