Antigua and Barbuda Search and Rescue (ABSAR) is sad to share the recent passing of Lee J. Sagert, a volunteer, to the SAR community here in Antigua and Barbuda for over a decade. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and friends. “Lee J. Sagert: Firefighter, Paramedic, Rescue Technician, colleague, mentor, friend.
Lee was a man of many talents. I met him when he first came to Antigua. He was excited to be on the island and eager to get to work. Like most of us in the world of emergency services, he thrived on the adventure of the job.
He volunteered with ABSAR over the years in Antigua and provided an invaluable service to the residents and visitors alike.
I remember an early rescue boat mission with him. We were cruising along the south coast of Antigua in a 1.5 m swell with about 12 knots of wind. He commented on how “rough” the sea was that day. My reply was “No, this is flat; I’ll let you know when I see rough.” Oh, and he was prone to sea sickness, but that never stopped him.
Recent years saw Lee working out of the Barbuda Ocean Club, running fire, EMS, and rescue calls. He was on just such a call when he suffered a major medical event. Care was immediately provided by a team member, but he did not respond to the treatment provided. Lee died doing what he loved to do, what he devoted his life to doing.
Rest now, my friend. Your watch is over.” – Jonathan Cornelius, one of the directors of ABSAR
Hearts and sunsets 