Tybee Island Fire Rescue honored Firefighter Matthew Quarles with a Meritorious Award from the Police and Firemen's Insurance Association for his efforts during a life-saving water rescue. The medal recognizes his training, devotion, and commitment to public safety.

At 4:50 a.m. on November 23rd, 2025, workers responded to reports of a person in the water near the pier. Units spotted the victim about 80 yards offshore with the assistance of a spectator who used a flashlight to direct them. Firefighter Quarles, a qualified rescue swimmer, entered the water and found the victim, who was unable to move due to cold exposure. He rescued the person from a pier pylon and swam him back to land. The patient, who had fallen from the pier and remained in 62-degree water for more than three hours, was transported to the hospital and treated for hypothermia. Officials said the incident reflects strong teamwork and professional training.