Heroic Moment: Army Football Player Risks His Life To Save Man From Burning Car
An Enloe High School graduate and Army football player is being celebrated after pulling off a heroic act that could have cost him his life this past weekend. Larry Pickett Jr., also known as “LJ,” was riding with his family near Times Square when fate placed him right where he was needed.
While driving back from dinner, they came across a terrifying crash on Route 9W in Fort Montgomery, New York. The vehicle was already smoking, and downed power lines surrounded the scene. Time was short. Without hesitation, Pickett and his father, Larry Pickett Sr., jumped into action.
Together, they pried the car doors open and pulled the man out. Moments later, the car was engulfed in flames. “There was no discussion. My son just jumped right into action,” Pickett Sr. recalled to ABC11. “He mentioned his military training kicked in, and we pulled him out. He took care of him on the side of the road until the police officers got there. And then the fire department got there shortly after.”
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Army Training and Family Values Shaped His Courage
Pickett, 20, a sophomore safety for the Army Black Knights, had been at West Point the night before for a football game. His father believes his son’s leadership and composure come directly from his Army training. “It’s just amazing to see him in action. And it’s just not surprising because we’ve watched him his whole life do amazing things,” he said.
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Military discipline, paired with family values, created a moment where instinct took over. In a world where many would freeze, Larry Jr. ran toward danger. His bravery serves as a reminder of the kind of selflessness that can’t be taught in classrooms: it’s lived and built through resilience, sports, and family guidance.
Who Is Larry “LJ” Pickett Jr.?
Larry Jr., affectionately known as “LJ,” has always been about helping others. Family members say he has talked about a career saving lives, whether by staying in the military or becoming a firefighter. His choice to put himself in harm’s way proves those words weren’t empty—they’re part of who he is.
At this time, it is unclear the condition of the victim. However, the father said in a Facebook post highlighting his son that he is “thankful” that this “man will live to see another day.”
While receiving nationwide praise, the young athlete has also been acknowledged by The Secretary Of Army. In a Facebook post, the official account read,
“Members of our U.S. Army continue to remind us why they are the best of our nation, this time by a Cadet. Cadet Larry Pickett Jr., a football player from the West Point – The U.S. Military Academy, pulled a man from a burning vehicle-an act of extraordinary courage and selflessness.
This young leader embodies the highest values of the Army and West Point: duty, honor, country. He showed that he can stand ready to act under pressure, whether on the football field, in his community, or in the future with the Soldiers under his command.
We are proud-and deeply grateful-for his heroism. America’s future is in good hands.”