In a stunning display of resilience, Joseph Malinowski, better known as the viral sensation “Lieutenant Dan,” has become the talk of the town for his daring decision to weather multiple hurricanes while anchored in his small sailboat along Tampa’s Bayshore Boulevard.
Joseph Malinowski: Despite pleas from local officials and residents to seek shelter, the 54-year-old Malinowski, who bears a striking resemblance to the “Forrest Gump” character of the same name, has remained steadfast in his choice to ride out the storms in his 20-foot vessel.
“I wasn’t going anywhere,” Malinowski told Fox News Digital. “I never planned on leaving. The storm didn’t scare me because I didn’t see it. I didn’t write it. I didn’t make it happen.”
Malinowski’s unwavering determination has captured the attention of social media users around the world, who have followed his exploits through live TikTok streams and news reports. The Tampa community has affectionately dubbed him “Lieutenant Dan,” a reference to actor Gary Sinise’s character, who, like Malinowski, is missing a leg and uses crutches.
As Hurricane Milton made landfall in Florida on Wednesday evening as a Category 3 storm, Malinowski remained in his boat, confident in his ability to weather the conditions. “Did the wind come through heavily? Yeah. Was it crazy for a little while? Yes, it was. Did it bother me? No, I knew what I was doing,” he said.
This is not the first time Malinowski has chosen to ride out a hurricane in his boat. He also stayed put during Hurricane Helene, a Category 4 storm that swept through Southeast Florida in late September, causing widespread damage and claiming over 200 lives across the region.
Despite the danger, Malinowski remains undeterred. “It’s a boat,” he said. “You keep the water out of the boat; you’ll be fine.”
However, Malinowski’s viral fame has come with its share of controversy. Adin Ross, a TikToker, initially offered to buy Malinowski a new boat, but withdrew the offer after learning of Malinowski’s extensive criminal record, which included arrests for assaulting a police officer and allegedly attempting to set a woman on fire.
Nonetheless, Malinowski remains resolute in his decision to ride out future Tampa hurricanes in his boat, despite the backlash and open cases surrounding the vessel’s ownership.
As the Tampa community continues to recover from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Milton, the story of the daring “Lieutenant Dan” serves as a reminder of the human spirit’s ability to withstand the toughest of challenges.