A powerful moment unfolded at the 7th Annual Fox News Patriot Awards as Army football player and West Point cadet Larry Pickett Jr. was reunited with the man whose life he saved just months earlier.
In late August, only days after earning his first start for Army football, Pickett — a second-year cadet — sprinted toward a burning vehicle in Fort Montgomery, New York. With his father by his side, he pulled driver David Denton from the wreck just moments before the car exploded into flames.
Video of the rescue quickly went viral, and West Point honored Pickett’s bravery, writing:
“Running towards danger to save lives is the embodiment of the Army Values and Warrior Ethos.”
Pickett’s act of courage earned him the Heroism Award at this year’s Patriot Awards, where he received a surprise emotional reunion on stage.
Denton, visibly moved, thanked the young cadet who saved him:
“You saved my life. God sent you — you’re an angel.”
He told the audience that the experience transformed him:
“If it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t be here today… He helped me, so I’m going to spend my life helping others.”
The crowd erupted in applause as the two embraced — a powerful reminder of duty, selflessness, and the American spirit.
