First Responders Honored For Life-Saving Actions
PROTECTED CONTENT
If you’re a current subscriber, log in below. If you would like to subscribe, please click the subscribe tab above.
Username and Password Help
Please enter your email and we will send you a password reset link.
Assistant Fire Chief Layth Terry and Fire Chief Mark McGavock present awards to Police Chief Jason Mangrum, firefighter Will Carter, Officer Trey Pullen and Officer Austin Tallent at the March 17 Board of Aldermen meeting for their response to separate fire emergencies.
WATER VALLEY — Acts of courage under life-threatening conditions were recognized Tuesday night as multiple Water Valley first responders received awards during the March 17 meeting of the Water Valley Board of Aldermen at City Hall.
City Attorney Daniel Martin read the official descriptions for each award before Fire Chief Mark McGavock and Assistant Chief Layth Terry made the presentations, honoring actions taken during two separate fire incidents.
Water Valley Police Chief Jason Mangrum received a Life-Saving Award for his actions during a house fire at his home on Sept. 13, 2025.
“During what could have easily become a tragic situation, Chief Mangrum was exactly where he was needed most,” Martin read. “Faced with a life-threatening emergency, he did not hesitate.”
The fire broke out in the early morning hours after the family had returned from a football game. Mangrum was able to get the children out of the house before circling back to rescue his wife, Trista, through a bedroom window moments before the room was engulfed in flames.
“Seconds mattered,” Mangrum said at the time.
“Because of his actions that night, his wife and children are here with us today,” Martin read.
Officials noted the recognition reflected both Mangrum’s training and character.
“In moments like these, training matters, but so does character,” Martin read. “Chief Mangrum showed both.”
Additional awards were presented for actions taken during a Jan. 29 fire on Clay Street, one of several incidents that occurred during Winter Storm Fern.
The fire, believed to have started on a back porch from a generator, spread into the wall and attic of the home. During the incident, the occupant re-entered the structure, creating a dangerous situation for responders.
Lieutenant William Carter of the Water Valley Fire Department was recognized for making entry into the smoke-filled home without protective gear.
“Knowing exactly the dangers facing him, and without any firefighting equipment, William immediately made entry into the structure,” Martin read. “William located the occupant, who was disoriented and lost in the bathroom.”
Officer Austin Tallent was also presented a Life-Saving Award after entering the home as conditions worsened.
“Knowing full well the dangers, Austin immediately entered the structure,” Martin read.
After assisting with the rescue, Tallent removed a large dog from the home.
“This large pet was the catalyst for the homeowner returning into the home,” Martin read.
Police Chief Jason Mangrum and Officer Trey Pullen received a Meritorious Service Award for their roles in the same incident.
“With no protective clothing, firefighting equipment, or concern for their safety, Jason and Trey entered the home to assist,” Martin read.
Both officers helped ensure the occupant was safely removed while maintaining awareness inside the structure as conditions deteriorated.
Officials said the awards reflect the level of teamwork and commitment shown by local first responders, particularly during Winter Storm Fern, when firefighters and law enforcement handled multiple emergency calls over several days.
“We often see law enforcement officers at their toughest moments, but this reminds us of the heart behind the badge,” Martin read. “They didn’t act for recognition. They acted because protecting others is who they are.”
