BROOKLYN CENTER, Minn. (AP) – A Minnesota conservation officer is being honored for his risking his life to try to save another.

The Department of Natural Resources says Thor Nelson of Bloomington braved the icy waters of the Mississippi River in Minneapolis last March.

A body spotted in the river was quickly approaching the falls of a river lock. There was no time to launch a rescue boat, so Nelson swam out 30 to 40 yards to get the victim. Back on shore, he performed CPR until paramedics arrived, but the victim could not be revived.

On Thursday, Nelson receives the Minnesota Public Safety Service Award of Honor from North Memorial Medical Center. The program recognizes courageous acts above and beyond the call of duty, as well as individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to public safety.

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