Carnegie Hero Fund Commission Executive Director Eric P. Zahren, left, presented the Carnegie Medal to Sanford Harling, Jr. and Dana Henderson, the parents of posthumous Carnegie Hero Sanford Harling III in a special ceremony held May 2, 2017, during a Norristown (Pa.) Council meeting.
On February 5, 2016, Sanford, 12, died after he re-entered his burning home for his father, who was recovering from surgery and required the use of a walker. Harling, meanwhile, escaped the house through a second-floor window.
“When you think of courage, what do you think of? I think of four words: fearless, heroism, bravery, and boldness. These four words describe Sanford for he exemplifies the meaning of courage,” said Council President Valerie Scott Cooper. “His selfless courage is an example of family love.”
Norristown Fire Chief Thomas O’Donnell and several firefighters were also in attendance.
“We feel really honored to be able to receive this award in honor of Sanford. This is something that will remain in our hearts,” Harling said. “Our son was already labeled a hero, but now he’s officially a hero in history.”Read more.
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