A 25-year veteran in the Sandy City Public Works Department was honored by city firefighters for his efforts in saving a couple from their burning home.

Last May 12, John Butcher was driving on his route through the city when he saw smoke and flames coming from a home near 11000 South and 300 East. He found an elderly homeowner trying to douse the blaze with a garden hose, but strong winds that day were helping the fire spread quickly. 

After learning that a woman was still inside the home, Butcher entered the smoke-filled garage and heard a faint voice crying for help. The woman, unable to walk due to health issues, was crawling toward the door. Through the thick smoke, he lifted her up to carry her out. But her disoriented husband was re-entering. So, with the woman in one arm, Butcher used his other hand to also guide him out of the burning home to safety.  

For his efforts, he received the Life Saving Award as part of the Sandy Fire Department’s Pinning Ceremony on June 28.

Five other personnel were also honored at the ceremony. Brady Kuan and Matthew Welch received their promotions to paramedic status. And new firefighter/EMTs who’ve joined the department were also recognized: Brock Lauritzen, Jesse Peacock and Dane Rasmussen.