Kenneth A. Hartman helped to rescue Sol Denmark from burning, Baltimore, Maryland, July 28, 1967. When his sedan was struck from behind, Denmark, 45, heating contractor, was knocked unconscious and thrown to the floor. The fuel tank was ruptured, and fire broke out. Hartman, 27, truck driver, ran to the automobile and with effort opened the front door on the driver’s side as flames spread toward it. Flames were burning on the inside of the opposite door, and others nearly filled the rear seat section. Hartman grasped the ankles of Denmark, who out-weighed him by 30 pounds. He pulled but could not get Denmark over the transmission hump on the floor of the vehicle. Bystanders ignored his call for assistance. Despite warnings of a fuel tank explosion, Hartman extended his head into the sedan and grasped Denmark by the legs. He pulled with force but still could not move him. Retreating briefly, Hartman returned with a small blanket over his head. Flames on the sedan were increasing and heat was very intense. Hartman extended his upper body into the automobile and secured a hold around Denmark’s hips. With difficulty he moved Denmark about two feet, clearing the transmission hump. A policeman arrived and helped Hartman remove Denmark from the automobile. When they were 30 feet away, the fuel tank exploded, filling the sedan with flames. Denmark was hospitalized for extensive burns. Hartman was treated for minor burns. 49781-5359
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