Army Player and Father Rescue Man from Fiery Crash Near West Point

A quick-thinking Army football player and his father saved a man from a burning vehicle following a car crash near the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. The dramatic rescue occurred early Sunday morning in Fort Montgomery, New York, just a short distance from the prestigious institution.

Video footage captured by Pickett Jr.’s sister, Lauren, shows sophomore safety Larry Pickett Jr. and his father, Larry Pickett Sr., pulling the man from the driver’s seat of a white sedan that had collided with a utility pole on Route 9W. As they carried him to safety, sparks from downed power lines illuminated the chaotic scene.

The Picketts were returning to West Point after a family dinner in Times Square when they encountered the crash. They remained with the injured man until emergency services arrived, showcasing remarkable bravery.

In a reflective post on Facebook, Pickett Sr. expressed pride in his son’s actions. “Just after midnight, I watched in awe as my son, Larry Pickett Jr., ran toward a burning vehicle, ignoring the downed power lines crackling around it,” he wrote. “With immense courage, he pulled a man to safety, saving him from a fiery fate.”

According to reports from local authorities, the crash occurred just before the car was engulfed in flames. The Picketts’ prompt response undoubtedly prevented a tragic outcome.

In an interview with WTVD-TV, Pickett Sr. noted that his son’s military training played a significant role in his instinctive reaction. “He mentioned his military training kicked in and jumped right into action,” he said.

The actions of both Picketts drew praise from various quarters. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll commended Pickett Jr. in a social media post, stating that the 20-year-old “embodies the highest values of the Army and West Point: duty, honor, country.” He added, “He showed that he can stand ready to act under pressure, whether on the football field, in his community, or in the future with the Soldiers under his command. We are proud—and deeply grateful—for his heroism.”

The U.S. Military Academy echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of such values in their students. Athletic director Tom Theodorakis remarked that the Picketts’ conduct exemplifies the leadership and selfless service that the academy strives to instill. “Cadet Larry Pickett Jr. and his father exemplify the values we hold dear, stepping up in a moment of crisis to save a life,” he stated.

The heroics took place just one day after Pickett Jr. participated in Army’s season opener against Tarleton State, where he contributed to a tackle in the first quarter. His next game is scheduled for September 6, 2023, against Kansas State.

In a heartfelt conclusion to his Facebook post, Pickett Sr. expressed gratitude for the outcome of the incident. “Thank you, Jesus, that this man will live to see another day! I am so grateful for my son LJ for saving his life!”

This incident not only showcases the courage of the Picketts but also reflects the character that West Point aims to cultivate in its cadets—readiness to respond in times of crisis, whether for their country or for anyone in need.