2026 SESSION
INTRODUCED
26109404D
HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 416
Offered March 12, 2026
Commending Master Chief Petty Officer Christopher S. Cupito, USN.
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Patrons—Rasoul, Cole, N.T., Keys-Gamarra, Martinez, McPike, McQuinn, Schmidt, Ward and Ware
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WHEREAS, Master Chief Petty Officer Christopher S. Cupito, USN, was nominated for the Gold Lifesaving Medal from the United States Coast Guard and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for saving the life of a stranger who had jumped off the West Norfolk Bridge into the Elizabeth River in September of 2024; and
WHEREAS, on the morning of September 4, 2024, a driver created a dangerous situation by driving the wrong direction on the West Norfolk Bridge before exiting the vehicle and leaping into the Elizabeth River below; and
WHEREAS, witnessing the incident, Christopher Cupito disregarded his own safety and acted without hesitation, racing through the chaotic scene to the marina at the base of the bridge, where he located a paddleboard and began swimming toward the man, who was struggling to stay afloat; and