Des Moines Fire Captain Honored with Medal of Honor for River Rescue

Des Moines Fire Captain Joe Van Haalen has been awarded the department’s Medal of Honor for his heroic rescue of a 7-year-old boy from the Des Moines River last summer. The award, a rare distinction not given out in over a decade, recognizes Van Haalen’s quick thinking and bravery on June 28, 2025.

The Rescue

On June 28, 2025, Captain Van Haalen responded to a call reporting a child clinging to a wire in the middle of the Des Moines River near Principal Park. The river conditions were hazardous due to recent heavy rains, resulting in high water levels, strong currents, and significant debris .

Upon arriving at the scene, Van Haalen assessed the situation and determined that waiting for the specialized WET rescue team would grab too long. Without hesitation, he wrapped a rope around his forearm, entered the turbulent water, and successfully rescued the boy .

Recognition and Commendation

The Des Moines Fire Department awarded Captain Van Haalen the Medal of Honor for his exceptional act of heroism. A department spokesperson stated that Van Haalen “did what true leaders do: he assessed, he committed, he acted” .

Firefighters Ben Wafful and Marco Matias were also recognized for their assistance during the rescue operation .

Van Haalen’s Response

Captain Van Haalen expressed the urgency of the situation, stating, “I told my crew that day as we were headed there and we could see the child floating down the river that I was going in. There was no way that we could leave him in this predicament that he was in” .

The Medal of Honor is a rare award within the Des Moines Fire Department, having not been presented for over a decade .