Golden retrieval

HARDYSTON-A golden retriever identified as Luke fell through thin ice on a pond located on Carriage Lane, just off Mountain Road last Thursday. Police received the 911 call at 10:27 a.m., and the fire department, police rescue team and first aid squad arrived on the scene within minutes. "Luke" was struggling to keep afloat in 10-foot deep water about 50 feet from shore. Fire Department spokesman Frank Lacatena said two firefighters donned full ice rescue gear and safety tethers. They tried to walk across the ice to reach the dog, but the ice was too thin and they had to enter the water to lift the dog out. Luke cooperated fully and appeared to welcome his saviors. Other than being cold, wet and frightened, the dog seemed to be in good shape. "It was just a textbook rescue," said Lacatena. Luke's owner declined to be identified.