A heroic truck driver from Oklahoma has been acknowledged for his courageous response to a perilous highway situation, earning an honorable recognition. Thomas Patterson, a driver from Owasso, Oklahoma, working with Melton Truck Lines in Tulsa, has been designated a Highway Angel by the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) for his valiant actions in freeing four individuals from an overturned car in Missouri.
Here’s the sequence of events reported by the TCA:
On July 9, while traveling on a Missouri highway, Patterson observed a vehicle that had flipped and was emitting smoke.
“I saw a car on fire and pulled over to make sure they were okay,” Patterson recounted.
Demonstrating quick thinking, Patterson halted his truck, disembarked, and shattered the car’s windshield to access those trapped inside. He discovered four young adults and assisted each of them to safety. Emergency personnel arrived swiftly after, allowing Patterson to continue his journey to prevent traffic obstruction. Reflecting on the incident, he credited his military background for his swift actions.
“I’m prior military,” remarked the Navy veteran. “It’s just kinda in me.”
Since its establishment in August 1997, the TCA Highway Angels program has celebrated nearly 1,400 truck drivers for their remarkable acts of heroism, kindness, and goodwill on the road. This recognition is supported by sponsors like EpicVue, DriverFacts, and Northland Insurance, underscoring the inspiring deeds of truck drivers like Patterson.
Source: Truckers News
Image: TCA
