A West Point football player is receiving significant praise for his courageous act of saving a driver from a burning vehicle just moments before it was engulfed in flames. The United States Military Academy expressed its pride for Cadet Larry Pickett Jr., a second-year cadet and player for the Army West Point Football team, on social media, describing his rapid response as heroic. The incident took place Saturday evening when Pickett and his father encountered a car that had veered off the road and collided with a power pole in Fort Montgomery, just south of the academy.
Videos circulating online capture the moment when Pickett and his father, Larry Pickett Sr., bravely pulled the driver to safety as the car was smoking. Power lines crackled ominously in the background, underscoring the danger they faced while executing the rescue. Subsequently, they transported the injured man to safety as emergency services arrived on the scene.
In the aftermath of the traumatic event, Cadet Pickett shared his thoughts. “I’m just grateful we got him out, honestly,” he exclaimed. He acknowledged the many onlookers who hesitated to assist, noting, “They saw the electric wiring. I don’t think they wanted to go get him.” His statement reflects a sobering awareness of the risks involved and highlights a commendable willingness to act in a crisis.
The father of the cadet credited his son’s training at West Point for what they accomplished that night. “Thank you, Jesus, that this man will live to see another day!” Larry Pickett Sr. wrote on Instagram. He expressed immense pride in his son, emphasizing that Cadet Pickett is not just making strides in academics and sports but is positively impacting his community as well. “This is more than a display of leadership; it’s a testament to the character West Point is building in him,” Pickett Sr. remarked. His comment points to the foundational values instilled in cadets that prepare them to serve not only their country but also their fellow citizens in critical moments.
Army Football head coach Jeff Monken also weighed in, stating, “Larry’s heroic actions embody everything we strive to instill in our cadet-athletes.” Monken commended Pickett for prioritizing the safety of the driver over his own well-being, reinforcing the character traits emphasized at West Point, including courage and selflessness. He expressed deep pride in how Pickett represented both his family and the Army Football brotherhood through his brave actions.
Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll echoed the sentiment, recognizing Pickett as an exemplary figure embodying the core values of duty, honor, and country. Driscoll acknowledged that Pickett demonstrated reliability under pressure, be it on the football field or in real-life emergency situations. “We are proud—and deeply grateful—for his heroism. America’s future is in good hands,” he concluded, affirming the promise of young leaders like Pickett.
This incident comes against the backdrop of a challenging moment for the Army football team, which endured a close loss in their season opener against Tarleton State just days prior. While the team must now regroup for their next game against Kansas State, the story of Cadet Pickett has become a beacon of hope and inspiration, illustrating the profound impact of West Point’s training.
In moments when ordinary individuals are faced with extraordinary challenges, stories like that of Larry Pickett Jr. serve as powerful reminders of the spirit of selflessness and bravery that thrives within the ranks of America’s military academies. As he transitions from the football field to lifesaving action, Pickett’s actions leave an indelible mark on the values that define both his personal journey and the ethos of service within the Army.
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