Lorenzo and Sheila Seaberry received the Soldier’s Medal on behalf of their deceased grandson, Spc. Tarik L. Seaberry, on Sept. 25, 2022, at the Military Aircraft Preservation Society (MAPS) Air Museum.

Tarik Seaberry, 23, drowned May 28, 2020, after saving the life of a drowning young woman.

Seaberry spotted the struggling young woman in Tinker Creek while walking with a friend on a nearby trail in Bedford, Ohio. He noted the strong current of the river, however immediately jumped in to help despite not knowing how to swim. After saving the young woman’s life, Seaberry was unable to swim to shore. His friend attempted to pull him to shore yet was unable to overcome the strength of the current.

According to the Army regulation for military awards, “the Soldier’s Medal is awarded to any person of the Armed Forces of the United States…. who, while serving in any capacity with the Army of the United States….at the time of the heroic act, who distinguished himself or herself by heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy.” Although he performed the heroic action in a civilian capacity, Seaberry still qualified for the Soldier’s Medal as a reserve-component Soldier.

Over 100 members assigned to the 762nd Transportation Company, Seaberry’s unit, stood in attendance during the award ceremony along side dozens of Seaberry’s extended family.

Former first sergeant of the company, Master Sgt. Joseph Settles, provided a heartfelt speech remembering the short time the unit spent with Seaberry and the lasting impact he left behind.

Lorenzo and Sheila Seaberry received the Soldier’s Medal from Lt. Col. Blake Quick, commander of Seaberry’s battalion, the 319th Quartermaster Battalion.

Tarik Seaberry’s heroism will be forever remembered by the 310th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) and the U.S. Army Reserve.