Airmen earn accolades from Governor for saving lives

  • Published
  • By Capt. David Faggard
  • 314th Airlift Wing Strategic Information Flight
Airmen are heroes while deployed; they're also heroes at home day in and day out in Central Arkansas according to Ark. Governor Mike Huckabee.

Col. Jim Carroll, Lt. Col. John Powers and Jim Harrington, 314th Medical Group, were honored Nov. 17 by the American Red Cross of Greater Arkansas with the 'Military Award;' an award annually sponsored by a local business and given to members of the Armed Forces who act as 'heroes.'

"The men and women of the base are great citizens and volunteers," said Ark. Gov. Mike Huckabee. "They go above and beyond the call of duty to save lives in Central Ark. and around the world. The air base is one of the greatest state assets,"

Grouped among other heroes form police and fire departments and emergency medical technicians, the three were honored for their actions before hundreds of civilians, business and elected leaders.

"Heroes are always at their best in a time of crisis," said Mr. Rex Nelson, Delta Regional Authority Federal co-chairman and event emcee. "These were unselfish actions to help others in need."

"They have risked their own lives to help humanity," said the governor. "These heroes have restored confidence in the American spirit and done amazing things; we're deeply indebted to them."

The awards were given to the three after a "Devastating accident on Highway 67/167 with a minivan [that contained six people] in which two were ejected." Mr. Nelson said.
"While stopping, and not concerned about themselves, these three immediately began CPR and even used one of their ties as a tourniquet."

"America would not be the America that it is today without these heroes," said Mr. Nelson. "Thank you."

The American Red Cross is a volunteer humanitarian organization funded by local charities that provides education and training to save lives during tragedies. May Construction Company, of Little Rock, sponsored the award win conjunction with the Red Cross.

The dictionary defines a hero as a person noted for feats of courage or nobility of purpose, especially one who has risked or sacrifice his or her life.