State Rep. Keith Greiner presented the citation, recognizing Buckwalter’s quick response after witnessing the rollover on April 3 along Colorado Route 34 near Kersey.

Buckwalter said he was honored to receive the recognition.

“I am very honored to accept and receive this award,” he wrote in a social media post. “In the words of Keith, too many times the good deeds of truck drivers are often overlooked. My skills and experience from the fire service were critical to this life save.”

Rescue Began Moments After Tanker Rolled Over

Buckwalter was driving through northern Colorado around midnight when he noticed a tanker truck several lengths ahead suddenly leave the roadway during windy conditions.

“I saw the sparks, a pole flying in the air, a big cloud of dust — and that tanker was now lying on its side,” Buckwalter recalled.

After bringing his own truck to a stop, he immediately ran back to the crash scene to assist the driver.

The tanker driver told Buckwalter he was transporting hazardous materials and initially said he was unable to exit the cab. Moments later, the driver became unresponsive before regaining consciousness.

Buckwalter was able to help the driver escape from the overturned truck before emergency responders arrived.

First Responder Experience Proved Valuable

After helping the driver to safety, Buckwalter remained at the scene and allowed the injured driver to use his cellphone to contact both his employer and his wife while waiting for emergency crews.

He later provided a statement to responding law enforcement officers and explained that he serves as both a volunteer firefighter and emergency medical technician in Pennsylvania.

According to Buckwalter, responding officers praised his quick actions and willingness to help despite the potential hazards associated with the overturned tanker.

Recognition Follows Earlier Honors

The Pennsylvania Citation Award is the latest recognition Buckwalter has received for his actions during the Colorado crash.

Reflecting on the incident, Buckwalter said he believes he was meant to be at the scene that night.

“I’m convinced God had me on that road for that reason — to be there for a fellow driver,” he said.

He also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to help and said he continues to pray for the other driver, his family, and employer.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: August 25, 2026

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: Lamar Buckwalter

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