City of Colorado Springs / Finance / News

Medal of Valor Bestowed on Dontrell Gardner

The Colorado Springs Fire Department has bestowed the Medal of Valor on Dontrell Gardner.  Presentation of the Department?s highest honor took place at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, TX on May 7.Dontrell was 9 years old when he made a courageous attempt to rescue a younger sibling in fire conditions during January 2008.  His rescue effort caused him to be exposed to extreme heat and toxic smoke.

According to CSFD Firefighter/Investigator Tony Seeley who presented the award at a small ceremony in the hospital?s community room, ?Dontrell is an exceptional young man who unselfishly put his own safety aside to try and rescue his younger sister.? 

In addition to Firefighter/Investigator Seeley, CSPD also sent two police officers and a detective to the ceremony. Travel expenses for the Galveston trip were paid by the Colorado Springs Professional Firefighters Local 5, the Firefighter?s Protective Association, and Police Protective Association.