DVIDS – News – Soldiers from Fort Bliss save lives in traffic accident

FORT BLISS, Texas – On the evening of July 10, 2024, at approximately 7 p.m., two infantrymen from the 4th Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, conducting indirect fire, demonstrated exceptional courage and quick thinking while responding to a serious traffic accident they observed on Spur Highway 601.

Spc. Nathan King of Arkansas and Pfc. Jared Moody of Pennsylvania were on their way to buy a motorcycle helmet in town when they saw a civilian vehicle spin out of control near the Old Ironsides Gate just outside of Fort Bliss. The vehicle crossed the median, rolled over and landed in the southbound lane near a traffic light where the soldiers had stopped.

Without hesitation, Moody and King jumped into action. They got out of their vehicle and rushed to the scene of the accident. There they found the driver disoriented and partially unconscious. With remarkable courage, the soldiers carefully pulled the driver from the wreckage.

After the civilian safely exited the vehicle, Moody and King found that the driver had severe cuts to his face that made it difficult for him to breathe.

“We got him a rag and cleaned his face. A woman offered to pour water on his face, but that would prevent the blood from clotting,” King said.

Moody and King used their training as Army paramedics to accurately assess the situation, minimize injuries to civilians, and provide much-needed assistance at a critical moment.

Shortly thereafter, El Paso police and emergency services arrived.

“It seemed like a while, but it was probably only five to ten minutes,” King said, acknowledging the quick arrival of emergency responders who cared for the injured civilian and secured the scene.

The quick and selfless intervention of the soldiers had a decisive influence on the outcome of this unfortunate accident.

Regarding their actions, Captain Alexander Kleinheider, company commander of the Headquarters and Headquarters Company of the 4th Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment, said: “It is an honor to serve in the same formation with these soldiers and to do the right thing when others would drive by.”

The 1st Armored Division, known as the “Old Ironsides,” is a premier armored division of the United States Army with a history of excellence and service. Stationed at Fort Bliss, Texas, the division is known for its selfless service and unwavering commitment to the El Paso community. Moody and King’s actions are a testament to the determination and professionalism of the Iron Soldiers serving in the division and the United States Army, and exemplify their devotion to service both on and off duty.