A Hurlburt Field airman is being credited with saving an elderly man’s life after pulling him from a burning vehicle on Highway 98 on July 25.
- Senior Airman Dalton Clark, an air transportation specialist assigned to the 1st Special Operations Wing, was driving eastbound on Highway 98 during the morning rush hour when he noticed smoke rising from a disabled vehicle on the westbound shoulder, according to the 1st SOW Public Affairs Office.
Clark saw flames climbing the hood of the car and beginning to surround the driver inside. Several bystanders were standing nearby with cellphones raised to record, but no one was moving to help, according to the release.
Clark, who lost a close friend in a vehicle fire in late 2025, threw his car into park at about 10:30 a.m. and sprinted across live, oncoming highway traffic to reach the vehicle.
When he arrived at the driver’s side door, he found heavy smoke and an elderly driver completely immobilized by shock. Clark reached into the burning vehicle, physically pulled the man out and dragged him to safety.
Seconds later, the fire completely engulfed the car.
- “I don’t really know what came over me in that moment,” Clark said. “But I truly believe anyone that wears a uniform has a purpose to serve, not just at a military capacity but also recognizing we serve our community.”
Maj. Travis Benne, a logistics readiness commander assigned to the 1st SOW, praised Clark’s actions.
“No matter what job a servicemember holds, our ultimate duty is to keep our country and fellow Americans safe,” Benne said. “Hurlburt Field isn’t just an installation; this local community is where our families live, work and go to school.”
After handing off the rescued driver to first responders, Clark returned to his vehicle and drove to work.
“A lot of people were hesitant to help because they were afraid of what would have happened to them,” Clark said. “If any Airmen encounters a situation where you can save a life, trust your heart. Remember why you serve. I serve for my community, the greater good of humanity and America itself.”
