Hill reservists awarded Airman’s Medal for act of heroism

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Erica Webster
  • 419th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah -- U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Chad Carrier and Master Sgt. Justin Rogers, reservists in the 419th Civil Engineer Squadron, received the Airman’s Medal during a ceremony at Hill Air Force Base, Utah on July 11, 2021.

On May 23, 2019, Carrier and Rogers witnessed an automobile accident near Lakeview, Alabama, involving a truck that had burst into flames on the side of the road. With complete disregard for their own safety, they called 9-1-1 and rushed to assist the trapped driver.

As the fire increased in size, the reservists were able to reach the driver through a broken rear window and pull him to safety. When a two-man fire crew showed up, they assisted the firefighters by diverting traffic, deploying hoses, and monitoring the driver’s condition until an ambulance arrived.

Utilizing their military training and quick thinking, the Airmen personified one of the Air Force’s core values, placing “service before self.”

One of the most prestigious decorations presented to Air Force service members, the Airman’s Medal is awarded to those who voluntarily risk their life in non-combat situations distinguished through their heroic acts.