Firefighter Sean Allen

Idaho Medal of Honor Recipient
September 9, 2016

Firefighter Sean Allen
Idaho Falls Fire Department

On September 28, 2015, at approximately 12:05 a.m. in Idaho Falls, emergency service personnel responded to an incident involving a vehicle overturned in a canal.  The vehicle was almost completely submerged, with a man trapped inside.  Firefighter/Paramedic Sean Allen arrived on the scene with other firefighters to assist the sheriff’s deputies already present.  Firefighter Allen entered the canal and water, which was 3½ feet deep, to assist in rescuing the victim.  After multiple attempts to break into the car failed, access was finally gained through a back door.  Disregarding his own safety, Firefighter Allen climbed into the unstable, submerged vehicle, cut the victim free and pulled him from the car.  With help of another responder, he carried the man onto the bank of the canal and rendered first aid.

Through indomitable courage, complete disregard for his own safety, and profound concern for the victim, Firefighter Allen showed great determination and thoroughness.  Firefighter Allen’s extraordinary heroism, fortitude, and endurance, with danger to his own life above and beyond the call of duty, are in the highest traditions of the Idaho Falls Fire Department and Idaho fire service.

Firefighter Sean Allen’s Official Medal of Honor Citation >>>