The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) has announced Officer Sara Howell of the Ridley Township (Pennsylvania) Police Department as their Officer of the Month for December 2024. Officer Howell was selected for her heroic actions in rescuing a driver trapped in his vehicle after it was struck by a train and caught fire.
On December 18, Officer Howell—disregarding significant risk to her own safety—reached into the back seat and dragged the trapped victim out of the vehicle just as it became fully engulfed in flames. She then moved the victim away from the vehicle, allowing medics to provide the emergency medical aid he needed.
“Officer Howell’s extraordinary bravery and selflessness in the face of immediate danger are a testament to the commitment and courage displayed by law enforcement officers every day,” said William Alexander, CEO of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. “Her actions embody what it means to serve and protect, and we are honored to recognize her as our Officer of the Month for December 2024.”
The Officer of the Month Award Program is sponsored by the Police Unity Tour and recognizes federal, state, and local officers who distinguish themselves through exemplary law enforcement service and devotion to duty.