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Cadet earns Soldier’s Medal after pulling man from burning car in Fort Montgomery

Pickett, who also plays on Army's football team, is now receiving the Soldier’s Medal, a prestigious award given to service members who act heroically outside combat settings.

News 12 Staff

Mar 18, 2026, 5:19 AM

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A West Point cadet has being honored for rescuing a man from a fiery crash in Fort Montgomery.

The dramatic scene was caught on camera as Larry Pickett Jr. and his father acted quickly on Route 9W. Police say the pair pulled a driver from a car that had crashed into a utility pole, moments before the vehicle erupted in flames.

The rescue happened in September while Pickett and his father were driving back to the U.S. Military Academy.

Pickett, who also plays on Army's football team, has been given the Soldier’s Medal, a prestigious award given to service members who act heroically outside combat settings.

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