Larry Pickett Jr., an African American Army football player from West Point, New York, is being hailed a hero after he and his father pulled a man from a burning car. The rescue happened just one day after his college football debut.
Pickett, a second-year cadet, was driving back to campus late Saturday night after having dinner with his family in New York City. About five miles from West Point, he and his father, Larry Pickett Sr., came across a single-car crash with flames and downed power lines, according to 11Alive.
Without hesitation, the father and son rushed toward the wreck and pulled the driver from the vehicle. Pickett’s sister recorded video of the rescue, while photos later released by the Fort Montgomery Fire Department showed the car completely engulfed in flames on the side of the road.
Pickett Sr. shared the experience on Facebook, writing, “Just after midnight, I watched in awe as my son, Larry Pickett Jr., ran toward a burning vehicle, ignoring the downed power lines crackling around it. With immense courage, he pulled a man to safety, saving him from a fiery fate.”
West Point officials commended the cadet in a social media post, saying the actions of Pickett and his father reflected the Army’s values. Athletics director Tom Theodorakis also acknowledged their response, calling it an example of leadership and selfless service.
The rescue followed Pickett’s first appearance for the Army Black Knights. He recorded a tackle Friday night against Tarleton State before returning home and encountering the crash on his way back to campus.
SOURCE: blacknews.com