It was with amazement that I read in the Eagle of area efforts in ice and water rescue (“Teaming Up,” Feb. 21). The brave BC3 students in this program are learning a critical skill: It takes nerve and a good bit of selflessness to put yourself in harm’s way to save others.

We often lament that colleges are out of touch when it comes to real-world skills. BC3, however, is so committed to teaching ice- and water-rescue strategies that the school actually has its own safety training pond, a keen use of public resources.

Professor Chris Calhoun, who leads the way on ice and water rescue, is highly credentialed, and the students in his program certainly seem to be learning from the best.

As for the students themselves, thanks to you all for making Butler County a safer place to live. You are heroes in the truest sense of the word.

Jason Reeher, Harrisville