Members of the Oklahoma National Guard were recognized by a joint session of the Oklahoma legislature Tuesday for acts of service and bravery at an annual appreciation day.
Brig. Gen. Louis Wilham said Master Sgt. Bryan Whittle was one of two bystanders to stop a gunman who had shot a woman and two children in May 2018 at Louie’s, an Oklahoma City restaurant on Lake Hefner.
"Master Sgt. Whittle’s selfless actions that day likely prevented further injury or loss of life, and because of his actions, he has been submitted for award of the U.S. Air Force Airman’s Medal," Wilham said.
Master Sgt. Scott Crim has been submitted for the Oklahoma Distinguished Service Medal for saving the life of a choking baby, and Sgt. Amber Heinzig and Sgt. Caleb Heinzig will receive the Oklahoma Star of Valor for pulling five people out of a wrecked van before it burst into flames.
Gov. Kevin Stitt said members of the guard have true hearts for service.
"Being prepared to respond to any emergency, no matter the situation, is not an easy task. It takes sacrifice, dedication and an impressive amount of heart," Stitt said.
Oklahoma Adjutant Gen. Michael Thompson said their motto is "Always willing, always there."
"It doesn’t matter if you call us for a flood in Wynnewood. It doesn’t matter if you call us for a grass fire in Woodward. It doesn’t matter if you call us for a tornado that ripped through one of our communities across the state of Oklahoma. The guard always answers," Thompson said.
The Oklahoma National Guard work force includes about 2,200 people, including more than 700 Army and Air reserves.
Tuesday was the 29th annual 45th Infantry Division and Oklahoma National Guard Appreciation Day at the Oklahoma capitol.
