Florida Gov. Rick Scott made a very special visit to 21 Western High School students on Monday to recognize them for being prom night heroes.
“I’m proud for every one of these, I’m proud of the driver, and it’s a great day to be here and give them certificates and acknowledge that they are heroes,” said Scott.
On their way to prom, the limo driver and all of the students inside witnessed a horrible rollover accident dangerously close to them headed eastbound on Interstate 595 near Hiatus Road.
Instead of moving on with their lives, they decided to step out in their prom gowns and tuxedos to help the family of seven inside. Because of their heroic efforts, Scott along with members of the Florida Highway Patrol presented them with the Florida Highway Patrol Certificate of Appreciation.
“Most of us in that limo are part of a health science program and we practice in first aid and emergency situations and stuff like that, so it’s nothing that (we weren't) prepared for," senior Peter Kim said. "We practice for it anyways, and we can thank our teachers for that."
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“These 21 students and Danny Izzy could've easily kept driving as tragedy unfolded behind them. Instead they helped their fellow Floridians and as a result no one was seriously injured,” said Scott.
Ashley Wolf said the recognition they received Monday "means everything" and is a true honor.
"We didn’t think we did anything that anybody else wouldn’t do, but having the governor here, it makes it that much more special," she said.
Posing for a picture with the governor, the limo driver, Izzy, was very honored.
“I was happy the governor came and I’m proud of all the kids too and what I did. It was shocking today. It was,” Izzy said.
In the last month and a half these students have been through so much – saving lives, going to senior prom, and being recognized by the governor. Tuesday brings another huge event: graduation.
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Photo Credit: NBC 6 South Florida