Trooper honored for rescuing man
June 20, 2008
A state trooper from Blair County received his department’s highest honor Wednesday for dragging a man from a burning building.
The Medal of Honor went to Trooper First Class Charles T. Wilt, 48, of the Hollidaysburg barracks.
Wilt responded to an Oct. 21 domestic call outside Roaring Spring. A standoff ensued with the husband spreading model airplane fuel throughout the house.
The sound of a gunshot was heard from outside the house, and smoke was seen coming from the home, state police said.
Wilt entered the house but was forced to retreat once by heat and smoke.
On a subsequent attempt, Wilt found the man inside the front door and dragged him outside with the aid of another trooper.
The man died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, authorities said.
‘‘Trooper Wilt’s selfless and heroic actions demonstrated his commitment and dedication to duty,’’ state police Commissioner Jeffrey B. Miller said.
Two other troopers also received the Medal of Honor during a ceremony at the State Police Academy in Hershey.
These domestic calls often end in tragedy. Trooper Wilt made a valiant attempt to save this man, and it is fortunate that only the husband in the situation died.