Heroism on the Water: A Real-Life Rescue That Reflects Our Core Values

At TA Dedicated, we believe that our core values — Safety, Connection, Innovation, and Integrity — aren’t just guiding principles in the workplace. They’re part of who we are, and sometimes, they show up in the most unexpected and extraordinary ways.

One recent example comes from our very own Milton Nieto, Warehouse Manager at TFD. Milton is not only a key team leader but also a weekend fishing guide on Richland Chambers Lake. On March 23, while wrapping up a routine day on the water, Milton found himself at the center of a life-or-death rescue mission — and didn’t hesitate to take action.

While grabbing a bite to eat at a local marina, Milton overheard a call about a capsized boat carrying three children and two adults. Despite high winds, rough water, and four-foot waves, he immediately sprang into action. With a cook from the marina joining him, Milton launched his boat and navigated the choppy waters in search of the stranded family.

What followed was nothing short of heroic.

Using his experience and equipment — including a lasso typically reserved for catching alligator gar — Milton and his partner pulled all five individuals to safety. The rescue was fraught with risk: controlling the boat in the waves, preventing it from crushing the capsized vessel, and lifting injured and frightened passengers aboard without tipping. Yet Milton remained calm, strategic, and deeply committed to getting everyone out safely.

His actions went beyond instinct. They were a direct reflection of everything we strive for as a company:

• Safety: Milton put others’ lives before his own, navigating dangerous conditions to ensure every individual made it home.
• Connection: He acted with empathy and urgency — treating strangers as if they were family.
• Innovation: From using a fishing lasso for rescue to managing boat balance in high winds, Milton improvised and problem-solved under pressure.
• Integrity: He stepped up without being asked, stayed until every life was secured, and asked for no recognition in return.

We’re incredibly proud of Milton, not just for his bravery but for embodying the best of who we are — on and off the clock.

To Milton: thank you for being a true example of leadership, courage, and heart. Your actions didn’t just save lives — they inspired all of us.