Greek Rescuer Sofia Kaspiri Honored for Saving Seven at Kefalonia

Lifeguard Sofia Kaspiri from Patra rescued seven swimmers, including two children, after a sudden change in weather created strong waves and currents at Abythos beach on the island of Kefalonia on July 3. She performed a series of rescues over about two and a half hours, bringing all victims safely back to shore.

The Greek Minister of Shipping, Vasilis Kiklian, presented Kaspiri with a special distinction at a ceremony in the Ministry of Shipping, praising her composure, professionalism and sense of duty. The minister highlighted that the award also honors all men and women serving as lifeguards and Coast Guard personnel who operate under demanding conditions. He noted ongoing efforts to expand lifeguard coverage, with the number of monitored bathing sites slated to rise from 661 to 692 and rescue positions from 1,007 to 1,042 by 2026, and cited recent safety inspections that identified 740 violations.

Kaspiri described the rescue as “unprecedented and very difficult,” but said she acted instinctively, following her training to help the people in need.