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September 2, 2010
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Towe lauded for life-saving efforts
Published December 13, 2009
The Monroe firefighter who pulled a man out of a burning building last month was honored for his heroic efforts by the city and an insurance company last week.
On Nov. 10, Monroe Fire Department firefighter Michael Towe pulled an elderly Thomas Roberson from his home at 803 Church St.
Despite thick black smoke coming from the building, Towe was able to locate the victim and drag him outside to safety.
“We just do this to be able to help out the community,” Towe said. “I know I’m up here getting the award, but I (want to) give recognition to the whole department.”
At Tuesday’s Monroe Council meeting, Towe received the Liberty Mutual Firemark Award for Heroism and accommodations from the city.
“Anytime I can recognize what (a firefighter) has done, it brings great joy to me and great joy to Liberty Mutual,” said Chris Green, a Liberty Mutual sales representative.
Towe was named employee of the year by MFD Chief Wayne Chancey for his efforts.
According to fire department reports, firefighters arrived at the home facing flames of up to 40 feet. Opening the back door, Towe and Capt. Stan Dial were met with heavy black smoke and high heat conditions. Staying low, Towe entered the home to do a quick search when he found Roberson lying on the opposite side of the kitchen. Despite the harsh conditions, Roberson was semi-conscious. Towe pulled Roberson out of the house to awaiting medical personnel. Roberson was flown to Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta.
The fire was brought under control a short time later by Monroe and Walton County fire crews. More than 50 percent of the house was damaged from the fire. The fire started from the fireplace that did not have the proper fire grate to keep the logs from rolling out.
The Liberty Mutual Firemark Award is presented annually to hundreds of firefighters throughout the country who best represent their communities through courageous acts and who best demonstrate the firefighter’s selfless spirit. Towe will be considered for the 2009 Liberty Mutual National Firemark Award. Two national winners — one honored for heroism, the other for community service/public education — will each receive a $10,000 grant from Liberty Mutual for their fire departments.
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