Chicago police honored for saving man and his dog

Eric Gale jumped into Lake Michigan in January after his dog, Pika, a 9-month-old American Eskimo mix, had slipped on the ice and fallen in.

Then, the 33-year-old couldn't get himself out of the 34-degree lake water.

"I almost died with my dog, and I really felt imperiled," said Gale, who had not previously come forward publicly. "I knew that, without help, I couldn't get out of the lake and I would die there. And seeing these men come over the ridge, I knew I was saved. They pulled me out, and I'm eternally grateful."

Five Chicago police officers and a sergeant were honored Tuesday for saving Gale.

• For the full report, visit chicago.suntimes.com.