Act of courage

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Tong Duong
  • 56ht Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Staff Sgt. Darrell Tirpak, 56th Civil Engineer Squadron firefighter, was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal by the 56th Fighter Wing Commander, Brig. Gen. Tom Jones Dec. 29, 2006.

Sergeant Tirpak, then a senior airman, distinguished himself by an act of courage on Loop 101 in Phoenix, Ariz. on April 11, 2006. On that date, Sergeant Tirpak witnessed a two-vehicle rollover accident while driving home from work.

"I felt that it was something I had to do," Sergeant Tirpak said. "When I saw the accident I jumped to it. I was in my fire fighter mode."

After stopping to assist, he noticed fuel leaking from the overturned diesel truck with one occupant trapped inside. Sergeant Tirpak quickly climbed on top of the cab, entered the unstable vehicle and turned off the engine. Realizing the smoking engine could still ignite the fuel, he kicked out the windshield and swiftly removed the severely injured driver to a safe place.

Using the skills he honed during his six years of firefighting at Luke, Sergeant Tirpak opened the victim's airway and maintained spinal support until emergency responders arrived. His ability to accurately pass on vital patient information to medical responders allowed the paramedics to focus on the most critical injuries, ultimately saving the victim's life.

"I appreciate what you did and I know your family does too," General Jones said. "It was really an unselfish act, putting your life at risk to save that man."

Whether at Luke or off base, Sergeant Tirpak did what was right and hopes the favor would be returned if needed.

"It's something I hope others would do for me or my family," Sergeant Tirpak said.

Despite the fact Sergeant Tirpak's duty day was over, his commitment to saving the lives of Americans is never ending.

"Staff Sgt. Tirpak's selfless act to jeopardize his life to save another is a great example of the professionalism and dedication of our amazing Airmen serving in today's Air Force," said Command Chief Master Sgt. Mitchell Stippel, 56th Fighter Wing.