AST2 Tye Conklin

Aviation Survival Technician 2nd Class Tye Conklin saved four people and one dog during rescue missions in 2007, and he also kept a 73-foot fishing vessel from going under through quick thinking, using a piece of wood and part of a rubber boot to patch a gash in the hull.

He helped train new lifesavers during 27 day and night rescue swimmer training missions. And the Coast Guard Aviation Training Center is evaluating Conklin's prototype for an emergency recovery device to help rescue swimmers if their hoists fail.

Lt. Brad McNally, a pilot at the air station, notes that if he goes on a night mission in bad weather, he wants Conklin on his crew. "His professionalism and dedication to duty would be tremendous assets to have on any mission, especially one in bad conditions."

Even off duty, Conklin is focused on rescuing those in trouble, volunteering for the National Ski Patrol.