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McConnell Airman recognized for act of heroism

  • Published
  • By Airman Erin McClellan
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  A 22nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief received the Distinguished Individual Safety Award from the 22nd Air Refueling Wing commander, May 6, 2016, at McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas.

Staff Sgt. William Womack received the award for potentially saving a man's life, Sept. 15, 2014, after he observed smoke coming from a residence in Andover, Kansas.

The Distinguished Individual Safety Award recognizes achievements in mishap prevention in any safety functional area. Nominees are recognized either for a single significant mishap prevention act or extended continuous contributions to safety.

"I was driving down Kellogg, and I [saw] smoke coming across the highway, so I pulled into the driveway," said Womack. "I pulled the door open and saw a man inside, and I asked him if there were any more occupants in the house. I got his shoes on him and got him outside before I went around to the back of the house and put the fire out with a garden hose."

As he extinguished the fire, the Andover Fire Department arrived and took control of the scene. Andover Fire and Rescue recognized Womack's heroism by sending a letter of appreciation to his leadership detailing his actions.

"The quick, decisive actions taken by Womack reduced the damage to the structure and personal property, prevented injury to others and maintained his own personal safety during the emergency," said Mike Roosevelt, Andover Fire and Rescue fire marshal.