SPRINGFIELD – Metropolis Firefighter Captain Clay Childers was in Springfield today for the 31st Annual Illinois Fallen Firefighter Memorial. I was proud to stand with Clay for a photo prior to his receipt of the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Medal of Valor. In October 2023, Captain Childers entered a structure fire in Metropolis, where he discovered a woman suffering from smoke inhalation.
Captain Childers, without the aid of a water source, rescued the woman from the flames. With medical treatment, her life was saved. I believe we owe Captain Childers, and indeed, all those who wear the uniform, run toward danger, and save lives every day, our most sincere thanks and gratitude. Thank you, Captain Childers, and congratulations on this distinct, and well-earned honor!
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