Two members of the 1st Cavalry Division are being hailed as heroes after their quick thinking and actions saved the life of a civilian truck driver whose vehicle overturned and caught fire near Fort Hood in Texas on February 23.
Sgt. Maj. Charlene Crisp, senior enlisted advisor to the staff judge advocate, 1CD, and Maj. Adam Blocker, plans officer and intelligence analyst, 1CD, were driving to work when they saw the overturned dump truck in flames. They immediately rushed to the scene and were joined by two unknown noncommissioned officers and a few civilians who also helped with the rescue efforts.
Blocker called 911 for emergency services while Crisp instructed one of the civilians to grab a fire extinguisher to reduce the flames. The staff sergeant on the scene kicked the windshield to break the glass, and a couple of civilian men cleared the shattered glass, which enabled the truck driver to kick his legs through. The recovery group then moved in and pulled the driver feet-first through the windshield cavity to safety.
Crisp and Blocker provided first aid to the driver, checking his cognitive abilities, ensuring he kept his neck straight to prevent a head injury, and keeping him calm while waiting for emergency services to arrive.
In the aftermath of the event, Blocker praised the NCOs assigned to Fort Hood and the unknown civilians who assisted with the rescue efforts. He encouraged others to seek opportunities to lend a helping hand, saying, “If you are looking out for your fellow Soldier or civilian and helping them in little ways now, then you will no doubt be able to help someone when it really matters.”
Both Crisp and Blocker downplayed their actions, saying they did what anyone would have done in the same situation. The heroic efforts of these individuals are a testament to the Army values of selfless service and a commitment to helping others.
Central Texas Reporter 