When a car burst into flames near Fort Montgomery, West Point cadet and Army football player Larry Pickett Jr. rushed to help alongside his father. Their swift actions pulled a man from the burning vehicle and earned them praise for their bravery and service.
Army football player and his dad save man from fiery car crash near West Point

Key Takeaways:
- A father-and-son duo helped rescue a driver from a burning car.
- The incident happened near Fort Montgomery, close to West Point.
- Their prompt, decisive action prevented a potential tragedy.
- Observers praised the rescue as an act of leadership and courage.
- The story highlights how Army values guide cadets to serve others.
The Fiery Incident
A routine drive near Fort Montgomery took a dramatic turn when a car crash left a vehicle consumed by flames. Bystanders looked on helplessly as smoke billowed and intense heat radiated from the scene.
Rescue by Father and Son
Among the first on the scene were Army football player and West Point cadet Larry Pickett Jr. and his father. Without hesitating, they pulled the driver from the burning wreckage, risking their own safety. Their teamwork and ability to remain calm under pressure undoubtedly saved a life that day.
Acknowledgment of Courage
Word of this selfless deed spread quickly, garnering commendation for their bravery. Friends, family, and military peers pointed to their actions as a real-world example of Army values in motion—demonstrating leadership, courage, and service to others, even beyond the football field.
A Lesson in Service
Their heroic rescue illustrates how readiness, both mentally and physically, can pay off in moments of crisis. By acting swiftly and confidently, they delivered help in a dire emergency. This father-son duo’s experience stands as a reminder that everyday heroes can emerge when least expected, reflecting the core principles that guide the U.S. Military Academy and its community.