What began as a routine day on duty quickly became a fight for life when Cpl. Zbigniew Adamczyk and Cpl. Malikah Warren responded to a call for an unresponsive woman during the height of summer.

On July 20, 2025, a male patron urgently approached Cpl. Adamczyk, reporting that a female patron was in immediate need of assistance. Without hesitation, Cpl. Adamczyk sprang into action. Across the beach, Cpl. Warren heard the urgency crackle through the radio as Cpl. Adamczyk called out, “Rescue, rescue, rescue!” while racing to the scene.

The woman had collapsed on the sand at Onslow Beach, NC. Cpl. Adamczyk arrived first to find her unconscious, with a bystander attempting to help. He immediately took control of the scene, instructing the bystander to call 911. After a rapid assessment, Cpl. Adamczyk determined the woman was breathing but drifting in and out of consciousness.

Acting quickly, he began administering oxygen and applied wet towels in an effort to lower her body temperature. Moments later, Cpl. Warren arrived on scene and assisted with emergency oxygen as they worked together to stabilize the woman. By the time EMS and lifeguards arrived and removed her from the beach, the woman was beginning to respond.

In recognition of their decisive and heroic actions, Cpl. Adamczyk and Cpl. Warren were recently awarded the American Red Cross Lifesaving Award. Both Marines credit their American Red Cross lifeguard training—reinforced by the discipline, focus, and composure instilled by the Marine Corps—for preparing them to act swiftly and without hesitation when every second mattered.

Congratulations to Cpl. Adamczyk and Cpl. Warren, and thank you for your service, your bravery, and your lifesaving actions.