MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
A Division Of The
Department of Public Safety
Public Information and Education Division - PO Box 568 - Jefferson City, MO 65102
NEWS RELEASE

For further information please contact: Capt. J. Tim Hull
Q572014 (573) 526-6115

May 7, 2014
EMPHASIS: 23 Patrol Employees Honored At Annual Awards Ceremony

Colonel Ron Replogle, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, would like to congratulate the 23 employees honored at the Patrol's annual awards and The MASTERS banquet recently. Held at the Holiday Inn Executive Center in Columbia, MO, family, friends, and members of The MASTERS (Missouri Association of State Troopers Emergency Relief Society) gathered to honor the heroes of 2013. Troop C's Color Guard presented the colors while retired Chief Operator Roger M. Heard played the bagpipes. Trooper Andrew A. Armstrong, Troop F, sang the national anthem. Pastor Phillip C. Dooley, of Gower, MO, gave the invocation and benediction. Colonel Ron Replogle presented the awards. Mrs. Lynn Wallis, president of The MASTERS presented The MASTERS Public Service Award. Listed are the awards and descriptions:

2013
The MASTERS Public Service Award
Sergeant Douglas J. Hedrick, Troop A

Sergeant Douglas J. Hedrick, Troop A, embodies public service. He joined the Patrol in 1993, with his first assignment being Troop A, Zone 14, Bates County. He now serves as the zone supervisor for Troop A, Zone 2, Platte County. Over the past 21 years, Sergeant Hedrick has enforced the law with compassion, fairness, and integrity.

Sergeant Hedrick serves his community in many ways. He is active in his church, planning and providing security, and volunteering to perform yard maintenance for them. He helped establish a Student Alliance Program at the Northland Career Center Vocational and Technical School in 2009, and continues to be part of that program. He also assists Skills USA students prepare projects for competition. Sergeant Hedrick organized a safety operation entitled “Trooper on a Bus” after the Platte City School District expressed concerns about motorists ignoring extended school bus stop arms. School district officials and local media representatives rode with responding officers who stopped motorists for this traffic violation.

Sergeant Hedrick regularly writes articles for the Platte City Landmark newspaper covering important safety-related topics and changes in the law. He helps coach a youth baseball team of eight- and nine-year-old boys in Platte City, also. He established a “Honk and Holler” program through the Salvation Army which distributes food to homeless individuals in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. Sergeant Hedrick took this program one step further by collecting used coats and distributing them in this same manner.

Annually, he volunteers for “Shop with a Cop” and serves as the troop coordinator for Special Olympics. He coordinates the selling of T-shirts, a “Tip A Trooper” event where troopers wait tables at the Country Cookin’ Cafe in Platte City, and attends the Special Olympic Winter Games in Weston, Missouri, to present medals to athletes and foster friendships. Sergeant Hedrick also participates in and plans the annual Trooper Fred Guthrie Memorial Golf Tournament. Originally, the tournament proceeds assisted the Guthrie family. Now, these funds are shared with a scholarship fund at Platte County High School and to other law enforcement families experiencing hardship.

Sergeant Hedrick is a volunteer at heart. His service, both on- and off-duty, positively impacts his community. The MASTERS Public Service Award was created to emphasize the importance of public service. The award honors a member whose actions strengthen the Patrol’s motto of “Service and Protection.” In 2013, that member was Sergeant Douglas J. Hedrick, Troop A.

2013
Career Milestone
1,000 DWI Arrests
Trooper John L. Mason, Troop D

Presented to Trooper John L. Mason, the Career Milestone recognizes Trooper Mason’s commitment to highway safety through DWI enforcement.

2013
Lifesaving Award
Trooper Evan T. Hane, Troop I

On July 13, 2013, Trooper Evan T. Hane and Sergeant Kurt C. Merseal were patrolling the Meramec River. They observed a group of people taking a swim as part of their float trip. Trooper Hane noticed a male subject who was separated from the group and who appeared to be in distress. The man’s companions appeared to be relaxed and unconcerned. However, Trooper Hane’s awareness of the man’s location in a strong current allowed him to realize the man had transitioned from swimming across the river to bobbing downstream. Trooper Hane felt the man was panicking. When the officers brought the boat nearby, they heard the man’s broken call for help. Trooper Hane ran to the front of the boat so he could grab the man and pull him to the boat. He then held onto the man while Sergeant Merseal ferried the boat to shallow water. Upon reaching shallow water, it became obvious the man had panicked when the current became too strong and had entered a semi-catatonic state. Once taken to shallow water, Sergeant Merseal conducted an assessment of the man and determined that he required no further assistance.

Meanwhile, a woman in the same group of people had completed her swim across the river. When she saw the officers rescue her friend, she began to swim to where they were located. The woman, who had placed a Type IV seat cushion on her back, running her arms through the straps, began to struggle when she reached the stronger current. The cushion pushed her face into the water, preventing her from breathing. Once again, Trooper Hane’s situational awareness led him to recognize the situation. Trooper Hane assisted the woman in performing a self rescue as the officers neared her location. He then helped her to the boat where he held on to her while Sergeant Merseal ferried her to shallow water.

Trooper Evan T. Hane is to be commended for his situational awareness, quick response, and willingness to assist. He recognized the need for emergency action despite the lack of request or alarm. His knowledge and training helped him save two lives. He is a credit to himself and to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

2013
Lifesaving Award
Trooper Coby G. Holzschuh, Troop F

On January 7, 2013, Trooper Coby G. Holzschuh attempted to arrest a female subject for an outstanding felony warrant and felony resisting arrest in Linn, Missouri. The subject ran from the scene and Trooper Holzschuh followed her. During the foot chase, the woman slipped and fell on the ice. As she got up, she pulled a knife from her pocket. Trooper Holzschuh caught up with her, and controlled the situation by taking her down to the ground. The woman ignored Trooper Holzschuh’s commands to cease resisting arrest. She also voiced her intent to kill herself. A citizen helped Trooper Holzschuh subdue the woman and take control of the knife. Unfortunately, the woman was able to cut herself, causing a deep laceration to her neck. Trooper Holzschuh requested an ambulance and then applied pressure to the wound. An ambulance transported the woman to the hospital. She has since recovered.

Trooper Coby G. Holzschuh is to be commended for his actions. His knowledge and training saved this woman’s life. He is a credit to himself and to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

2013
Lifesaving Award
Trooper Michael T. Weakley, Troop G

On November 20, 2013, Trooper Michael T. Weakley was on routine patrol on U.S. Highway 60 west of Van Buren, Missouri. When he observed smoke coming from the roof of a residence, he turned around to investigate. Trooper Weakley confirmed that smoke was coming from the residence, contacted Troop G to request the fire department be called, and began beating on the front door. He heard two dogs inside the residence and continued to beat on the door for several minutes. When the owner of the residence finally came to the door, Trooper Weakley informed her of the danger and directed her to get her dogs and move to a safe location. The Van Buren Fire Department arrived on the scene and determined a flue had overheated and was burning the trusses and insulation in the attic. Firefighters at the scene expressed their belief that Trooper Weakley had saved the owner’s life.

Trooper Michael T. Weakley is to be commended for his situational awareness, quick response, and willingness to assist. His knowledge and training helped him save this woman's life. He is a credit to himself and to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

2013
Lifesaving Award
Corporal Steven H. Crabtree, Troop I
Sergeant Donald M. Hedrick, Troop I

On October 19, 2013, Corporal Steven H. Crabtree and Sergeant Donald M. Hedrick, both Troop I, responded to a traffic crash in Pulaski County to assist Trooper Nicholas A. Smith, Troop I. While on scene, a firefighter notified them that a second firefighter needed assistance. Corporal Crabtree observed a firefighter fall to the ground behind a fire truck. He assessed the man’s condition and found him unresponsive, thus he notified Troop I to dispatch emergency medical services. Sergeant Hedrick joined Corporal Crabtree, and the officers performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation until emergency medical services arrived. The man was transported by air ambulance to a St. Louis hospital where he recovered from the incident.

Corporal Steven H. Crabtree and Sergeant Donald M. Hedrick are to be commended for their quick response and willingness to assist. Their knowledge and training helped them save this firefighter’s life. They are a credit to themselves and to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

2013
Lifesaving Award
Corporal Thomas L. Hall, Troop D

On January 28, 2013, Corporal Thomas L. Hall was off duty and at his residence. A neighbor informed him a woman was performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation on a man at the entrance to their subdivision. Corporal Hall responded and found a woman performing CPR on her husband, who had collapsed while jogging. Corporal Hall immediately took over the CPR and continued until paramedics arrived. The man was then taken to Cox Medical Center in Springfield, where he made a full recovery.

Corporal Thomas L. Hall is to be commended for his quick response and willingness to assist. His knowledge and training helped him save his neighbor’s life. He is a credit to himself and to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

2013
Lifesaving Award
Corporal Scott L. Nelson, Troop G

On April 18, 2013, a disabled hunter was separated from his party by quickly rising flood waters near Boiling Springs Conservation area in Texas County. He floated out of his wheelchair in the flood water, but managed to beach himself on a small area of high ground. Corporal Scott L. Nelson was one of the emergency personnel to respond to the scene. The rising floodwaters prevented the rescuers from rendering aid to the hunter. Corporal Nelson, an experienced kayaker, obtained a kayak from a local resident, gathered a few essential items, and made his way to the victim. The man had been wet and exposed to the cold for several hours. Corporal Nelson found the victim hypothermic and disoriented. He replaced the victim’s wet clothing with dry blankets and stayed with him until the Patrol helicopter arrived on the scene and lifted the hunter to safety.

Corporal Scott L. Nelson is to be commended for his quick thinking and willingness to assist this disabled man. He placed himself at risk and took actions that saved this man’s life. He is a credit to himself and to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

2013
Lifesaving Award
Corporal Joshua D. Owens, Troop A

On April 30, 2013, Corporal Joshua D. Owens was on routine patrol on U.S. Highway 50 near Missouri Highway 58. As he approached an intersection, he observed a 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix resting on its left side in the median. It was apparent a traffic crash had just occurred. Corporal Owens could see the Pontiac’s engine compartment was on fire. He exited his patrol vehicle and ran to the Pontiac to check for occupants. Despite the heat from the fire, which was traveling up the windshield, Corporal Owens approached the rear glass. The single passenger inside was having a difficult time finding a safe escape route due to the smoke filled passenger compartment. Corporal Owens used his baton to shatter the Pontiac’s rear glass and then assisted the man from the vehicle to a safe location.

Corporal Joshua D. Owens is to be commended for his quick assessment of and brave response to a dangerous situation. His knowledge and training helped save the life of this man. He is a credit to himself and to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

2013
Meritorious Service Award
Trooper Adam J. Michels, Troop C

On May 10, 2013, Trooper Adam J. Michels joined a pursuit in progress on Interstate 44 near Six Flags Road. The suspect had fled from Illinois State Police earlier in the day. He had an extensive criminal history and multiple warrants for his arrest. The suspect had shown little regard for the safety of others by being involved in two vehicle pursuits that day, one in Illinois and one in Missouri. The man pointed a firearm at Franklin County deputies and made statements to St. Louis County dispatchers that he was willing to use his weapon. Eureka, Missouri, police officers blocked a residential street and the pursuit came to an end. Trooper Michels exited his patrol car and approached the suspect's vehicle from the right side. The suspect’s car began rolling toward the other officers who fired their weapons at its front. Trooper Michels saw the suspect raise a pistol across his chest and point at another officer as his vehicle again rolled forward. At that time, Trooper Michels moved into an elevated position and fired his Patrol issued Remington Model 870 shotgun, striking the suspect. An ambulance transported the suspect to Mercy Medical Center in Creve Coeur, Missouri, where he was pronounced dead from multiple gunshot wounds. None of the officers at the scene were injured.

Trooper Adam J. Michels took decisive action and applied his training in this dangerous situation. He showed good judgment in ending the threat posed by the suspect and preventing injury to himself and his fellow officers. His actions are a credit to himself and to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

2013
Meritorious Service Award
Trooper Joseph S. Palmer, Troop E
Trooper Brooks A. Pratt, Troop E

On December 24, 2013, Trooper Joseph S. Palmer responded to a single vehicle crash on Missouri Route E in New Madrid County. A passenger car had traveled off the roadway and overturned in a water-filled drainage ditch. The air temperature was 25 degrees and the water temperature was near freezing. The vehicle was on its top in eight feet of water. A bystander alerted Trooper Palmer to the fact that the driver was trapped inside. Without regard for his personal safety, Trooper Palmer entered the water and dove to the vehicle. He attempted to open the driver and passenger side doors to no avail. An attempt to break a window also failed. Trooper Palmer exited the water to notify Troop E of the situation. Trooper Brooks A. Pratt arrived on the scene. Together, the troopers entered the water and dove to the submerged vehicle. This attempt to gain access into the vehicle also failed. Trooper Dylan L. DeJournett arrived on the scene and requested that a first responder utilize their personal truck to attempt to pull the submerged vehicle out of the water. Trooper Palmer secured a tow rope to the undercarriage of the vehicle. Unfortunately, the truck was unable to pull the vehicle far enough out of the water to free the driver. A tow truck arrived on scene a short time later. Eventually, the tow truck was able to pull the vehicle halfway out of the water. Trooper DeJournett opened the driver side door. Trooper Pratt and a New Madrid County deputy entered the water and attempted to free the driver from the vehicle. However, the driver's legs were pinned, prompting Trooper Pratt to enter the vehicle’s water-filled passenger compartment to free them. Trooper Pratt and the deputy were then able to pull the driver to dry land. Unfortunately, paramedics were unable to revive the driver.

Trooper Joseph S. Palmer and Trooper Brooks A. Pratt performed above the call of duty in a dangerous situation. Their bravery and perseverance provided the best possible chance of survival for a victim of a traffic crash. Their actions are a credit to themselves and to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

2013
Meritorious Service Award
Trooper Christopher J. Sullivan, Troop H

On January 28, 2013, Trooper Christopher J. Sullivan checked a gold Chevrolet Tahoe traveling 97 miles per hour. He stopped the vehicle on Interstate 29 at the 90-mile marker in Holt County, Missouri. Unknowingly, Trooper Sullivan had encountered a violent repeat felon whose extensive criminal history covered 20 years. Several indicators led Trooper Sullivan to request the driver to submit to field sobriety tests, which he did. As a result, Trooper Sullivan determined the man to be intoxicated and he advised the man he was under arrest for driving while intoxicated. The man became combative and started walking back to his vehicle. Trooper Sullivan attempted to prevent the man from entering the vehicle. However, due to the man's physical stature—6'6" and 294 pounds—Trooper Sullivan was unable to gain control of the situation. An intense struggle ensued with Trooper Sullivan using his Oleoresin Capsicum spray. The man was able to get into his vehicle, start the engine, and place it in gear while resisting arrest. Although the man struck Trooper Sullivan in the face and head multiple times, Trooper Sullivan was able to place the vehicle in park and shut off the engine. The man then exited his vehicle and advanced on the officer. He struck Trooper Sullivan repeatedly in the head and face with a closed fist. While defending himself, Trooper Sullivan realized one more strike would likely incapacitate him. In fear for his life, Trooper Sullivan created distance and fired three shots from his service weapon, striking the man in the upper body. The man fell to the ground. Trooper Sullivan contacted Troop H for assistance, repositioned his patrol vehicle to protect the scene, and then retrieved his first aid kit in order to render aid. Despite Trooper Sullivan’s efforts, the man succumbed to his injuries and died at the scene.

Trooper Christopher J. Sullivan took decisive action and applied his training in this life-threatening situation. He is a credit to himself and to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

2013
Meritorious Service Award
Trooper Zachary S. Wang, Troop C

On September 20, 2013, Trooper Zachary S. Wang was working a traffic crash on Missouri Highway 94 near Missouri Highway 47 in Warren County. After completing his investigation, he learned that a man had robbed the First Bank in Dutzow, Missouri, which was located approximately one mile from where he was located. He began to assist in the search for the bank robber’s vehicle, and heard a partial license plate number from Warren County dispatch. While traveling southbound on Missouri Route F from New Melle, Missouri, he observed a vehicle matching the description from the dispatch traveling in the opposite direction. He turned around and attempted to overtake the vehicle. As he rounded a curve, he saw that the suspect’s vehicle was on the side of the road with the driver’s side door partially open. Trooper Wang stopped his patrol vehicle behind the suspect’s vehicle. Knowing the man was armed, Trooper Wang immediately exited his patrol car and ordered the driver to exit the vehicle and get on the ground. The driver exited the vehicle, pointed a revolver at Trooper Wang, and began to fire. The first shot struck Trooper Wang in the chest, and he returned fire as he sought cover at the rear of his patrol vehicle. During the exchange of gunfire, the suspect was struck and dropped his revolver. Once the suspect was secure, Trooper Wang requested emergency medical personnel to respond. Further investigation revealed that this man was responsible for three additional robberies in the St. Louis, Missouri, area.

Trooper Zachary S. Wang took decisive action and applied his training in this life-threatening situation. His bravery and strong desire to protect the citizens of the community prevented the robber from escaping and endangering the lives of others. He is a credit to himself and to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

2013
Meritorious Service Award
Corporal Lance D. DeClue, Troop I
Sergeant Justin L. McCullough, Troop I

In the early morning hours on August 6, 2013, Corporal Lance D. DeClue and Sergeant Justin L. McCullough responded to a low water area along Mitchell Creek in Waynesville, Missouri. Ft. Leonard Wood Fire and Rescue had been in the process of rescuing residents when their boat capsized due to the rushing flood waters. Thus, three firefighters and four civilians were stranded in the water. Both Corporal DeClue and Sergeant McCullough responded to the scene with Patrol boats. The officers first rescued a man with a broken leg holding a small child while clinging to a guide wire. They then returned and rescued two firefighters. Corporal DeClue and Sergeant McCullough then motored to where two women and a firefighter were stranded. After retrieving one of the women, they experienced motor failure. The Patrol boat washed downstream among much debris (propane tanks, limbs, etc.). Corporal DeClue and Sergeant McCullough ultimately secured the first boat to a concrete wall and left the rescued female in the care of emergency personnel along the water’s edge. Then, they ran upstream on foot where they launched another Patrol boat, rescued and transported the other female to safety, then returned for the remaining firefighter. These operations were performed in the dark, while the water was rushing outside of the banks in a flash flood situation. Operating a boat in flood water requires much skill and experience, and one small mistake can have devastating consequences.

Corporal Lance D. DeClue and Sergeant Justin L. McCullough, Troop I, took decisive action and applied their training in a situation demanding immediate action and involving considerable personal risk. Their bravery rescued seven people impacted by the flash flooding on August 6. They are a credit to themselves and to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

2013
Meritorious Service Award
Corporal Kyle E. Easley, Troop B
Sergeant Nicholas D. Berry, Troop B

On February 1, 2013, at approximately 12:37 a.m., Corporal Kyle E. Easley and Sergeant Nicholas D. Berry became aware of a fire at the Cairo Senior Apartments in Cairo, Missouri. Both officers arrived at the scene within three minutes. Upon arriving, they observed flames shooting from the roof and southwest portion of the apartment building. The burning structure was a single-level building containing four separate apartments designed for senior citizens. Corporal Easley and Sergeant Berry began making contact with the elderly residents, who appeared to be both frightened and confused. In one instance, Sergeant Berry was required to kick in a door to reach the resident and remove him to safety. After removing the residents from the burning structure, Corporal Easley and Sergeant Berry ensured they were evaluated by ambulance personnel and placed into the care of their families. The officers then moved vehicles from the parking lot to avoid damage and allow room for fire trucks. It should be noted the outside temperature during this fire was approximately two degrees Fahrenheit.

Corporal Kyle E. Easley and Sergeant Nicholas D. Berry placed themselves in considerable danger to save the lives of these elderly residents. They relied on their training and took decisive action in a life-threatening situation. Their actions are a credit to themselves and to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

2013
Civilian of the Year
Automotive Technician III Tyson C. Getman, Troop D

Automotive Technician III Tyson C. Getman began his career with the Missouri State Highway Patrol on April 16, 2010. He came to the organization with prior training and experience. Mr. Getman’s positive attitude, willingness to perform any task requested, and dedication have been infectious. Troopers regularly call him during his off-duty time with a problem or question about their patrol vehicle. Mr. Getman either assists them over the phone or meets them at Troop D. One such example was when there was a problem with the 1959 Dodge patrol car which would render it inoperable for an upcoming parade. Mr. Getman met the trooper at Troop D, helped unload the vehicle, and worked to diagnose the problem. At the Troop D garage, Mr. Getman has implemented a program in which tires are purchased from a local vendor, rather than having to store a monthly supply. Valuable garage space is better utilized and trips to Jefferson City for tires are avoided, saving time and money. Mr. Getman assisted with the remodeling of the garage, helped streamline service work, and, along with the second mechanic, has shifted the garage hours to accommodate later appointment times for those troopers working evening shifts. When he is not at work, Mr. Getman, his wife, and their two young children are active in the community. He is an involved member of the Bible Baptist Church in Springfield, Missouri. His faith is expressed in his actions and the way he treats others, both at work and outside the organization. Mr. Getman truly cares about the people with whom he works, as well as the organization for which he works.

Automotive Technician III Tyson C. Getman is a credit to himself and to this organization. His positive attitude, knowledge, and work ethic are an asset to the state of Missouri. His actions are in keeping with the highest tradition of the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

2013
Benjamin Oliver Booth Officer of the Year
Trooper Zackery K. Bryan, Troop D

Trooper Zackery K. Bryan was appointed to the Missouri State Highway Patrol on January 7, 2007. He currently serves and protects the citizens of Troop D, Zone 14, Barry County. Trooper Bryan consistently demonstrates the core values of this organization. In addition to working the road, he has distinguished himself in the area of criminal investigations. In 2013, he amassed 76 criminal arrests, including 57 drug arrests. Narcotics investigators assigned to the Troop D area often praise Trooper Bryan’s efforts and tenacity. He regularly looks beyond the stop and has assisted narcotics officers with surveillance, intelligence gathering, and providing confidential informants in his zone. In addition to his criminal arrests, Trooper Bryan made 528 arrests, including 27 driving while intoxicated arrests and 96 seat belt arrests last year. He issued 489 warnings, investigated 77 traffic crashes, and completed 257 reactive and self-initiative services in 2013. He is the consummate professional with an attention to detail. He excels at report writing, volunteers consistently to answer reactive calls, and maintains a positive attitude. Trooper Bryan has been lauded for his inter-agency cooperation and officer safety skills. While off duty, he is active in his community and his church. He volunteers at the Monett, Missouri, YMCA and helps coordinate a safety fair with the troop’s public information and education officers for a YMCA day camp. He held safety and mentoring programs at the Monett Community Church, the YMCA, and a local nursing home in 2013.

Trooper Zackery K. Bryan embodies the ideals of the Patrol’s mission and values. His actions are in keeping with the highest tradition of the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

2013
Valor Award
Trooper Daniel J. Johnson, Troop G
Trooper Jason W. Philpott, Troop G

On April 18, 2013, Douglas County experienced very heavy rain, which resulted in flooding in several areas. Troop G received a call that an elderly couple was trapped in their mobile home due to the rising waters of a nearby creek. Officers from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, and local fire departments responded to the scene just off Missouri Route A and County Road 409. Trooper Daniel J. Johnson and Trooper Jason W. Philpott were among those who responded. When officers arrived on the scene, they found floodwaters from Spring Creek completely surrounding the mobile home and rising. Trooper Johnson and Trooper Philpott launched the Patrol’s rescue boat from a nearby field and maneuvered through the floodwaters to the front porch of the mobile home. Trooper Johnson then entered the residence, outfitted the elderly couple with personal floatation devices, and helped them safely board the rescue vessel. As Trooper Philpott began to pull away from the flooded residence, the vessel’s motor stalled. The vessel began to turn in the swift water. Trooper Johnson and Trooper Philpott worked quickly to realign the vessel upstream; however, the current was too swift and the vessel quickly began taking on water. The troopers paddled vigorously in an effort to reach a nearby outbuilding. However, the vessel took on too much water and capsized. All four occupants were tossed into the swift current and began drifting downstream toward a concrete bridge. Just beyond this flooded bridge was a webbed wire fence, which was collecting loose debris from the current. Trooper Johnson and Trooper Philpott acted quickly. The troopers, each holding onto one of the elderly residents, swam diligently against the swift current and brought them to the water’s edge a few feet from the edge of the concrete bridge. Emergency personnel treated the elderly couple at the scene; they fully recovered from the incident.

Trooper Daniel J. Johnson and Trooper Jason W. Philpott performed an extraordinary act of heroism in a situation involving considerable personal danger. Their actions extended far above and beyond the call of duty. Their performance is in keeping with the highest tradition of the Missouri State Highway Patrol.


(Photos available upon request.)

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