Sheriff's Deputy Is Honored
Sheriff's Deputy Is Honored Save Email Print
Posted: 3:49 PM Jun 3, 2008
Last Updated: 5:43 PM Jun 3, 2008
Reporter: Dara Rees
Email Address: dara.rees@wymtnews.com

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An eastern Kentucky sheriff's deputy was honored as a hero for actions the Johnson County Sheriff says helped save a man's life.

It's a day Johnson County Emergency Responders say they will never forget.

Sheriff Bill Witten says they could have seen a greater loss if not for Deputy James Preston's quick thinking.

The sheriff honored Preston with a medal heroism for saving another man responding to the accident.

On January 22nd, Preston pulled Paintsville EMS worker Brian Moore by the belt to avoid a coal truck that slid off the road killing fellow paramedic Christa Burchett and Erica Brown.

Preston was also awarded a plaque for his heroism from the Paintsville Fire Department.

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Posted by: jon Location: p on Jun 4, 2008 at 07:31 PM
I bet if he had done something wrong, mr wow would be shouting a the top of his lungs.I dont know how it is in Richmond but here it is nice to hear of a officer getting a little reward, even there was other losses in this case, he saved some elese. Sp quit crying about some getting a reward, it dont happen too often, usually people are shouting because the servant made a mistake...

Posted by: Friend Location: Pike Co. on Jun 4, 2008 at 05:14 PM
I agree, Preston was just doing his job as an officer. However, others feel Preston when above and beyond his call of duty. Therefore, Preston should be honored. I'm sure the plaque and medal means something to Preston, but the lives he saved has given him a greater reward!! And I would like to thank officer Preston for doing what he does!

Posted by: Anonymous on Jun 4, 2008 at 02:56 PM
Blessed are the peacemakers.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Wittensville on Jun 4, 2008 at 01:24 PM
It was not deputy Preston's choice to be honored. I hope that no one in your family is ever in the same situation as Moore, but if they where, I'm sure that you would think that a simple plaque and medal could never be thanks enough for a second chance at life. You would want to show your appreciation in any way possible.

Posted by: Citizen Location: Paintsville on Jun 4, 2008 at 12:52 PM
My God, do we have to complain about everything? Mr. Preston saved someones life. Why are you talking about him. I hear jealousy in the air.....Way to go Mr. Preston!!!!!!!!

Posted by: kathy Location: martin co on Jun 4, 2008 at 11:46 AM
i am the aunt of the deputy and our family is very proud of james

Posted by: B Location: Nippa on Jun 4, 2008 at 06:08 AM
I believe a deputies job description is to uphold the law, not save lives. He went above what was expected and because this a very good man is still with us today.

Posted by: Wow Location: RIchmond on Jun 3, 2008 at 08:20 PM
So everytime they help some one they get a reward and yet its their job? Then they all cry that all they get is complaints from people when they dont do their job. Calling some one whos job is to save lives a hero and they didnt die is kinda like calling the guy at krispy kreme a live saver because he sells food.

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