Stories of LAFD members who have risen to the challenge when faced with exceptional dangers
Woman Rescued from Structure Fire
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Firefighters David Mack and Casey Glynn found themselves working together on Rescue 866 on April 3, 2008. In the early morning hours of the 4th, they were dispatched as part of the first alarm assignment to a reported structure fire at 1258 W 55th Street. When they arrived on scene, they found fire showing from the living room of a single family dwelling. After their size-up, they were informed by OCD that an occupant was on the phone with the dispatcher, stating she was trapped by the flames in a bedroom closet.
Even with no other companies on scene, Mack and Glynn went to work. Firefighter Glynn attempted forcible entry on a door in the rear while, despite heavy fire and smoke, Mack forced entry on the front door. He grabbed a garden hose from the front yard and began to extinguish the fire in the living room. He was able to knock down a portion of the flames, enabling him to enter the structure and commence a search for the trapped woman.
Crawling through the fire room, Mack found a bedroom and searched the entire room, including the closet. Finding no one, he continued down the narrow hallway and located another bedroom at the rear of the house. Searching this room, he opened the closet door and found the trapped occupant who had lost consciousness. Mack removed his mask and provided air to the downed victim. He lifted and carried her out of the house to safety with the assistance of Firefighter Glynn who had gained entry from the rear of the house. Engine 46 was arriving on scene as they exited the structure and immediately initiated first care for the victim. The rescued occupant was transported to the hospital and survived this near-tragic incident.
Adapted from the account of Albert Luna, Captain II
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Medal of Valor Award
Awarded to a sworn member who has demonstrated bravery at great personal risk to his or her own life, beyond a doubt and clearly above the call of duty, whether on or off duty.
Medal of Merit Award
Awarded to a sworn member. Distinguished by performing an act where if not taken, would have resulted in serious injury or present imminent danger to life. The member must have demonstrated a conspicuous act of bravery with calculated personal risk to his or her own life.
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View photos from the LAFD Awards Luncheon by clicking here.
