Although I am a frequent critic of police misconduct, it goes without saying that the profession of law enforcement is an honorable one, and there are true heroes among their ranks. On July 25, two state troopers with the Welch detachment in McDowell County put their lives on the line to save numerous individuals from a fire in an apartment building. There were 31 families living in the building, including some with physical disabilities. Everyone got out alive.

Cpl. C.F. Kane and Senior Trooper J.S. McCarty were subsequently awarded the Medal of Valor by Governor Joe Manchin. And that truly is the meaning of “to protect and serve.” Bravo to troopers Kane and McCarty.

You can read the full story in the Bluefield Daily Telegraph.

– John H. Bryan, West Virginia Attorney