Injured Ohio Firefighter Close to Recovery

HAMILTON, Ohio --

A Hamilton firefighter who nearly died during a training exercise is taking significant steps toward a recovery.

Chris Gabbard spent Memorial Day weekend with his family at the Drake Center, where he is rehabilitating from his injuries.

Photographs show that he is able to walk, talk and joke with his wife, daughter and son.

Gabbard was seriously injured April 17 during a water-rescue exercise on the Great Miami River.

His boat was drawn into a low dam and overturned, and Gabbard remained trapped underwater for nearly 20 minutes.

A fund to pay for his medical care has been set up at Chaco Credit Union or Fifth Third Bank.

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