2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26109404D

HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 416

Offered March 12, 2026

Commending Master Chief Petty Officer Christopher S. Cupito, USN.

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Patrons—Rasoul, Cole, N.T., Keys-Gamarra, Martinez, McPike, McQuinn, Schmidt, Ward and Ware

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WHEREAS, Master Chief Petty Officer Christopher S. Cupito, USN, was nominated for the Gold Lifesaving Medal from the United States Coast Guard and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for saving the life of a stranger who had jumped off the West Norfolk Bridge into the Elizabeth River in September of 2024; and

WHEREAS, on the morning of September 4, 2024, a driver created a dangerous situation by driving the wrong direction on the West Norfolk Bridge before exiting the vehicle and leaping into the Elizabeth River below; and

WHEREAS, witnessing the incident, Christopher Cupito disregarded his own safety and acted without hesitation, racing through the chaotic scene to the marina at the base of the bridge, where he located a paddleboard and began swimming toward the man, who was struggling to stay afloat; and

WHEREAS, Christopher Cupito helped the man onto the paddleboard and guided him to safety, avoiding recreational boaters who created an additional hazard by crowding the narrow channel; the man was evaluated by first responders at the scene and transported to a local hospital for further treatment; and

WHEREAS, Christopher Cupito visited the hospital the following day to check on the man, demonstrating his exceptional compassion and commitment to humanitarian service; and

WHEREAS, Christopher Cupito's valiant, unselfish actions reflect the highest ideals of the Commonwealth and the United States Navy; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That Master Chief Petty Officer Christopher S. Cupito, USN, hereby be commended for saving the life of a stranger in September 2024; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Master Chief Petty Officer Christopher S. Cupito, USN, as an expression of the House of Delegates' admiration for his heroic, lifesaving actions.