Christopher Cinque, the chief lifeguard for East Hampton Town's Montauk district, has been named the New York State Lifeguard of the Year.
"This recognition reflects the collective effort of our entire lifeguard team in East Hampton," Mr. Cinque said in a release from the town.
He was chosen from among lifeguards at agencies across New York by Smith Point Ocean Rescue, which each year recognizes one of its own along with an exemplary guard outside of its agency who has made "outstanding contributions to the field of lifeguarding" and shown "dedication to ensuring the safety of our community," according to the town.
"His dedication and leadership are truly inspiring, and we are grateful for his service in keeping our beaches safe," Town Supervisor Kathee Burke-Gonzalez said in the release announcing the award. "His example is truly reflective of our Town of East Hampton lifeguards and their unwavering commitment to the safety and wellbeing of our community."
Town Councilman David Lys said that he "has truly set a standard for excellence in lifeguarding."
Mr. Cinque, who now oversees 65 lifeguards, has been an East Hampton Town Marine Patrol officer since 2022. A lifelong resident of the town, he was first certified as a surf lifeguard in 2009, promoted to lieutenant of Indian Wells Beach in Amagansett in 2014, and became captain in 2015. He was named East Hampton Town Outstanding Lifeguard of the Year in 2016, was promoted to second assistant chief the following year, and has been the Montauk district chief since 2022.
Mr. Cinque was "commended for his response and recovery efforts during two plane crashes in 2018, showcasing his ability to handle emergencies with composure and professionalism," the town said, and in 2019 was named the East Hampton Volunteer Ocean Rescue Member of the Year.
John Ryan Jr., chief of town's lifeguards, praised his "calm yet commanding demeanor that not only reassures those he supervises but also creates a strong rapport with them," adding in the release that "his zero-drowning record speaks volumes about his vigilance and effectiveness."