Life Scout Tommy S. Honored for Courage and Quick Thinking in a Dramatic Lifesaving Rescue
Peoria, AZ— Life Scout Tommy S. of Troop 126, Peoria, AZ, was recently awarded the Heroism Medal at an official ceremony held at Circle of Peace Church on September 28, 2025. The ceremony was attended by Tommy’s Troop Charter Organization, the American Legion Post 94, Scouting Arizona’s Field Director Jordan McCandless, and members of the Peoria Police Department.
The Scouting America Heroism Award recognizes youth members and adult leaders who have demonstrated heroism and skill in saving or attempting to save a life while minimizing risk to themselves. Recipients must exhibit courage, daring, skill, and self-sacrifice, applying knowledge learned through Scouting in a real-life emergency. It is one of three national-level lifesaving awards.
The entire experience, from the chaotic crash to the aftermath, taught me the importance of acting quickly and decisively in a crisis. My training as a Scout guided me, and I was able to ensure that the victims received the help they desperately needed in those crucial moments.
On the morning of September 15, 2024, Tommy had just received his driver’s license and was running an errand for his family when he witnessed a violent car accident. One vehicle flipped into the air and rolled multiple times toward his own car.
Tommy safely pulled over and immediately assessed the situation. Another passerby stopped to help, but Tommy quickly took charge, directing someone to call 911. Seeing the overturned vehicle leaking fluids and emitting smoke, Tommy approached and managed to bend open the pinned passenger-side door to reach the elderly occupant trapped upside down by his seatbelt. Using the skills he had learned in Scouting, Tommy unbuckled the man and helped him out of the vehicle to safety.
He treated the man’s cuts and abrasions, monitored him for shock, and stayed at the scene until emergency responders arrived, providing a thorough statement to the police about the incident and his actions.
"We are incredibly proud of Tommy for embodying the spirit of Scouting America and for showing extraordinary courage in the face of this emergency."
Tommy reflected on the experience, saying, “The entire experience, from the chaotic crash to the aftermath, taught me the importance of acting quickly and decisively in a crisis. My training as a Scout guided me, and I was able to ensure that the victims received the help they desperately needed in those crucial moments.”
Tommy is currently a Life Scout in Troop 126, working toward his Eagle Scout rank. A senior at Sunrise Mountain High School and a member of their Marching Band, Tommy continues to be an outstanding example of courage, leadership, and community service.
