What It Really Means to Serve: The Story Behind a Trooper’s Medal of Valor
In 2016, a Florida Highway Patrol trooper pulled two people from a burning vehicle—including a career felon with multiple warrants. The car exploded while he was inside. This is the story of what happened, what he risked, and why true service is never about glory—it’s about duty, courage, and protecting others at all costs.
FROM TRAINING TO TRIUMPH - WHAT MILITARY AND SPORTS TEACH ABOUT LEADING, WINNING, AND GROWING IN LIFE
Coach Leo Young
6/3/20252 min read
What It Really Means to Serve: The Story Behind a Trooper’s Medal of Valor
The Problem: Most People Don’t Understand What Service Requires
We talk about duty. We talk about sacrifice. But very few people truly understand what those words mean—until a car is on fire and someone’s life is on the line.
In 2016, a Florida Highway Patrol trooper was in pursuit of a career felon with multiple warrants. The suspect had nearly run over another trooper, leading to a high-speed chase. When the fugitive crashed, his vehicle burst into flames.
Most people would have stayed back.
He didn’t.
“I went into the car while it was still on fire. It blew up while I was in there.”
He pulled two people out of the vehicle, saving both lives—including the fugitive’s. For his actions, he received the Medal of Valor.
What would you do if you saw someone trapped in a burning vehicle?
Drop your thoughts or experiences in the video comments—we want to hear from you.
The Pro Model: Protect First, Ask Questions Later
This wasn’t a clean-cut rescue.
One of the men he saved was a known fugitive who had almost killed another officer and later nearly did the same thing to a different department. But none of that mattered in the moment.
“You have a duty to protect—regardless of the situation.”
That’s what separates those who say they serve from those who live it.
Most People Wouldn’t Have Gone In
He couldn’t even see inside the car.
The crush damage made entry almost impossible. The flames were spreading fast. He knew what could happen.
But when your training and values kick in—there’s no hesitation.
“You always hear about that moment when your adrenaline takes over…
You’re stronger than you normally are.”
And in his words, “I was blessed to come out unscathed.”
This Career Isn’t for Comfort—It’s for the Greater Good
There’s no fantasy in this work.
Long hours. High stakes. Endless grind.
“If you get into law enforcement for any reason other than to serve and protect, you’re doing it for the wrong reasons.”
Key Takeaways for Athletes, Coaches, and Leaders
✅ Real leadership shows up in life-or-death moments—not just in wins and losses
✅ Adrenaline, mindset, and physical preparation can save lives
✅ You don’t pick who you protect—you protect because it’s right
✅ Serving others is a mindset, not a job title
✅ Courage is doing the right thing when it would be easier to walk away
How Sore to Soaring Honors the Service Mindset
At Sore to Soaring, we don’t just train athletes—we honor those who serve.
Through stories like this, we teach the mindset of discipline, courage, and leadership.
Because whether you’re in uniform or in cleats, serving something bigger than yourself is what defines real success.
🌍 Support our mission at:
👉 www.SoreToSoaring.org
Disclaimer
The views shared in this article are for informational purposes only and do not represent an endorsement by Lupos Initiative Inc., DBA Sore to Soaring. Always consult a qualified professional before implementing any safety, legal, or tactical decisions. No affiliation or compensation exists between Sore to Soaring and any for-profit entity mentioned.
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