Each week, a special spotlight is shined on those who exemplify what it means to be a true patriot. This week, that distinction goes to Congressman Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin, a former Navy Seal whose remarkable actions saved a young boy’s life in a harrowing car accident. This heartwarming tale not only shows the heroism of one man but highlights the spirit of community that defines America.
Last week, as the congressman and his wife were traveling to honor the memory of their late daughter, tragedy struck on Interstate 35 in Iowa. They witnessed a devastating crash involving a minivan and a semi-truck that unfolded before their eyes. In an instant, lives hung in the balance, and Derrick’s instincts kicked in as he rushed to the scene. With his training as a combat medic and former Navy Seal, he was ready to make a difference in that grim moment.
When he reached the minivan, he found an 11-year-old boy who suffered horrific injuries, including a severe leg injury and a compound fracture in his arm. It was a scene no one wants to encounter. Yet, instead of panicking, Congressman Van Orden took charge. He utilized his medical training, fashioning makeshift tourniquets from socks to stop the bleeding and stabilize the injured boy while other bystanders joined him to provide aid. His calm and collected demeanor in the midst of chaos is a reminder of the courage that lies within ordinary Americans.
As more people rallied together at the scene, it became apparent that this act of bravery was not just a solo performance. Fellow Midwesterners quickly formed a traffic blockade, directing vehicles away from the accident site to ensure the safety of those providing help. It was a true portrait of community spirit—men and women uniting to support one another in a time of crisis, embodying the very essence of what it means to be American. In a world where negativity often takes the headlines, this moment offers a refreshing reminder of the goodness that exists among us.
The courageous young boy, showing an incredible amount of grace and composure in such a terrifying situation, later met with the congressman in the hospital. The bond they created in that moment went beyond a simple rescue. Congressman Van Orden emphasized the importance of the boy’s life and urged him to grow into a fantastic young man. This encounter served not only as a moment of thanks but as a promise for a brighter future—a call to live life to the fullest, something every parent desires for their child.
As the story of this heroic rescue spreads, it resonates with a sense of pride in serving one another, touching the hearts of many across the nation. It reminds us that being a patriot is not just about one person’s actions but rather how we come together to support and uplift each other. Congressman Derrick Van Orden’s actions are a testament to bravery and compassion, and it is clear that he embodies a true American spirit.
