The following is via TLS:

In an emotional event during the Toms River Township Committee meeting this evening, the Good Samaritan who saved the life of a baby was recognized by Township officials and by the father of the infant.

William Copes, was driving down New Hampshire Avenue on that fateful day when he saw a vehicle plunge into a retention basin.

Mr. Copes immediately sprung into action, and when he found the wrecked car he scrambled to help.

Mrs. Eisdorfer A”H unfortunately didn’t make it out alive, but as Mr. Copes searched the wreckage he heard the cries of a baby. Seeing the baby upside down and strapped and trapped in the car seat, Mr. Copes managed to cut the straps and free the baby, saving her life. He then handed over the baby to emergency personnel.

At tonight’s Township meeting, Township officials honored Mr. Copes for his bravery, and presented him with a plaque, signed by the Mayor and other officials.

But the highlight of the bittersweet event, was the emotional words by the father of the child, who publicly acknowledged the heroic actions of Mr. Copes, and then in private, together with a gift and a heartwarming letter.

“Words can never describe the gratitude I have for your selflessness,” the letter stated….”Whoever saves a life, as if he saved an entire world…Thank you for saving my world.”

It’s people like Mr. Copes who make the world a better and happier place.