Courage Under Fire: Cowan Officers Honored with Life Saving Award
- Terri Carter
- May 15
- 3 min read
Police officers willingly put their safety aside, stepping into harm’s way to protect others. For them, it is far more than just a job; it is a calling. It is a purpose fueled by an unwavering sense of duty, a deep passion for service, and a courage that few truly understand. Every day, they make a choice to uphold justice, stand as a shield between danger and innocence, and serve with honor, no matter the cost.
They endure intense training that pushes them to their limits. They commit to long, demanding hours, facing situations that test not only their skill but their resolve. They make life-altering decisions in mere seconds, carrying the weight of responsibility on their shoulders. More often than not, they spend more time on the front lines than they do at home with their families, sacrificing precious moments with loved ones in service to their communities.
And in July 2024, when chaos struck and danger loomed, two brave Cowan police officers did what they had always been trained to do—they answered the call without hesitation. In a moment of crisis, when lives hung in the balance, they stood firm, embodying the very essence of duty and heroism. Their actions that day were a testament to the unwavering commitment shared by all who wear the badge, a reminder that true service comes not just from skill, but from an unbreakable resolve to protect, defend, and sacrifice for the greater good.
Officer T.J. Parsons and Officer Sky Stewart were honored Monday Night at Cowan City Hall in recognition of their bravery and courage during a housefire call. Cowan Police Chief Allen Wilkinson stepped up to the podium with a sense of pride and admiration, ready to honor two of his officers with the prestigious Life Saving Award. The ceremony, carefully planned as a surprise, was a moment of recognition for the bravery and selflessness they had demonstrated.
Before unveiling the award, Wilkinson recounted the harrowing events of that fateful night—when the officers faced imminent danger but refused to back down. Their unwavering determination and commitment to protecting others defined their actions, proving that courage is not just a word but a choice made in the most critical moments.
The story reads as follows:
“On July 1st, 2024, Officer Parsons and Stewart responded to a call at 214 Chestnut St. in reference to a housefire. Little did they know, this would be a call that would test not only their training and instincts, but their heart, their courage, and quick thinking. When they arrived on scene, the house was completely engulfed in flames, and the homeowner was trapped inside the residence. Without hesitation, the two officers did not second guess the risk they were about to take. With the home being fully engulfed, the two officers knew they had a job to do to save a life while putting their own lives in danger. Through their continued efforts, the two officers were able to make forceful entry into the residence through a backdoor which was blocked and keeping the homeowner from exiting the residence. Once they were able to get the backdoor open, both officers were overwhelmed with smoke inhalation but never gave up and were able to remove the homeowner from the burning home and get him to safety.”
Chief Wilkinson explained that both officer Parsons and Officer Stewart sustained smoke inhalation. Officer Stewart also sustained a major injury of a torn ACL, which required surgery, and she is still undergoing physical therapy.
“Through both officers quick actions and courage, a family was spared an unimaginable loss, and a life was given a second chance.”, stated Wilkinson. “It is our privilege to recognize these two officers for their bravery and dedication. These actions reflect the very best of what it means to wear the badge.”
Emotions ran high as these two heroes received their Life Saving Award, surrounded by family, friends, and their fellow officers. In a room filled with admiration and gratitude, the significance of their bravery was deeply felt by all in attendance. Their unwavering commitment to protecting others had not gone unnoticed, and as they stood before their loved ones and their brothers and sisters in blue, the moment served as a powerful reminder of the courage and sacrifice that defines their service.
