Four Skateboarders Honored for Their Courage in Protecting a Young Woman
In a world where people often look the other way in tough situations, four teenagers from Calgary showed the true meaning of bravery. They were honored for their courage after stepping in to protect a young woman from potential harm during a terrifying late-night encounter.
Their quick actions earned them the Chief’s Award for Bravery, one of the highest honors given by the Calgary Police Service.
The Night That Changed Everything
The story begins in April 2015, on a cool night in downtown Calgary. Four friends—Kyle Tenove, Warren Churchill, Clay Stein, and Josh Hunter—were out enjoying a late-night skateboard session.
As they skated through the streets, they noticed something troubling. A young woman, clearly in distress, was walking alone. She appeared to be intoxicated, and something about the situation made the teens uneasy.
But the real danger didn’t become clear until they saw a man approach her. He was aggressive, trying to force the woman into a nearby alley. The young men instantly realized that this wasn’t just a simple disagreement. The woman was in danger.
Taking Action Without Hesitation
Without a moment’s hesitation, the four friends knew they had to act. Warren Churchill later recalled, “We just couldn’t stand by and watch. We had to do something.” They skated over to the scene, positioning themselves between the woman and the man.
By stepping in so quickly, they created a barrier, giving the woman the chance to escape from the dangerous situation.
The man, realizing his plan had been thwarted, quickly fled the scene. The skateboarders didn’t stop there, though. They stayed with the woman, offering her support and making sure she was safe while they waited for the police to arrive.
“We just wanted to make sure she was okay,” said Kyle Tenove. “We stayed with her until the police showed up to take over.”
Their actions were not only brave but also incredibly selfless. They didn’t know the woman and had no idea who the man was. But their sense of right and wrong kicked in, and they chose to make a difference that night.
A Heroic Recognition
What these young men did that night didn’t go unnoticed. A year after the incident, the Calgary Police Service decided to honor them for their bravery.
During an official ceremony, the four skateboarders were presented with the Chief’s Award for Bravery, a prestigious recognition given to civilians who show extraordinary courage in dangerous situations.
“What these young men did was incredible,” said Chief Roger Chaffin of the Calgary Police Service. “They acted without thinking of their own safety and made a real difference. Their quick thinking and maturity under pressure are a testament to their character.”
This award is more than just a trophy—it’s a powerful reminder that anyone, no matter how young, can make a difference when they choose to take action in difficult moments.
A Lesson for Us All
The bravery of Kyle, Warren, Clay, and Josh goes beyond just this one act. Their actions are a reminder of how much impact bystanders can have when they choose to intervene. In a world where violence and harassment are all too common, the skateboarders set a shining example of how vigilance and compassion can truly make a difference.
The Calgary Police Service hopes that the recognition of these young men will inspire others to act when they see someone in need of help. “We hope this story will encourage others to be more aware of what’s going on around them and to act when it counts,” said Chief Chaffin. “Sometimes, a simple act of bravery can change the course of someone’s life.”
In a time when many might walk away or ignore what’s happening around them, the courage of these four teens stands as a beacon of hope. They proved that even small actions—like stepping in to help a stranger—can have a profound impact on someone’s life.
What Do You Think?
This story is a reminder that bravery doesn’t always look like a superhero or a big moment. It’s in the small choices we make every day. What do you think of the skateboarders’ actions? How would you have responded in that situation? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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