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Local citizens honored with 2020 Heroes in the Heartland awards

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OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) - A young boy who rescued a toddler from a pool was honored Tuesday alongside other local heroes by the American Red Cross.

The Heroes in the Heartland program recognizes people who go above and beyond to help others in need.

One of this year's honorees was Preston Caniglia, a 12-year-old boy who jumped into a pool at a backyard party and pulled his 3-year-old cousin to the surface.

When asked what made him spring into action, his answer was pretty simple.

"I just saw someone in need and I could help them so I did,” he said.

Roxana Francke, a nurse who was at the party, was able to revive the little boy. She was also honored at Tuesday’s event.

Tuesday marked the 19th year of recognizing heroes in the Metro area.