Idaho Medal of Honor Recipient
May 19, 2016
Deputy Christopher Rix
Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office

On September 28, 2015, at approximately 12:05 a.m. in Idaho Falls, emergency service personnel responded to an incident involving a vehicle overturned in a canal. The vehicle was almost completely submerged, with a man trapped inside. Upon arrival at the scene, Patrol Deputy Christopher Rix immediately jumped into the water, which was 3½ feet deep, to assist in rescuing the victim. Deputy Rix worked with other deputies on scene to try to pry the door open, without success. The vehicle was extremely unstable, presenting a serious threat to those in the water. However, Deputy Rix was determined to stay in the cold water, disregarding his own safety, to continue to try and rescue the man trapped inside the car.  After several more attempts, access was finally gained through a back door, and the victim was freed from the car and carried onto the bank of the canal.

Through indomitable courage, complete disregard for his own safety, and profound concern for the victim, Deputy Rix showed great determination and thoroughness. Deputy Rix’s extraordinary heroism, fortitude, and endurance, with danger to his own life above and beyond the call of duty, are in the highest traditions of the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office and Idaho law enforcement.

Read Deputy Christopher Rix’s Official Medal of Honor Citation >>>