Dateline: July 12, 2001

VFW gives life saving awards to locals 

The National Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States has awarded several Donley County citizens with the National VFW Life Saving Award. 

Sheriff Charles “Butch” Blackburn, Jr., dispatcher Clarice Hoggatt, firefighter James Hinton, and local man Max Rippetoe were recognized for rescuing two people this spring.

Vic Jeter and his companion were rescued from his truck when it was swept into the drainage behind Renee’s Diner during a heavy rain on May 3, 2001.

Donley County Post 7782 and its Quartermaster William Holden made the recommendation. Post Commander J.D. Hopper presented the awards.

The certificate reads, “In grateful recognition and sincere appreciation of your prompt and selfless life-saving action. Your personal initiative and prompt action resulted in saving the life of another and is one of the highest obligations to humanity. Your efforts will serve as an inspiration to others and especially the Veterans of Foreign Wars.”