Missouri Governor Mike Parson awarded Missouri Public Safety Medals to a total of 11 first responders and six civilians for heroic and live-saving actions during 2019. The awards represent the state’s highest recognition for first responders working as individuals and as members of a team during critical incidents. The civilians were honored for taking on harrowing risks during emergencies to save lives and support first responders. Award winners include two troopers from Troop G of the Missouri State highway patrol.
Shawn M. Dougherty and Jason C. Kuessner, Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop G – On August 6, 2019, members of the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Carter County Sheriff’s Office were met with a barrage of gunfire as they attempted to execute a writ of eviction in rural Carter County. Trooper Caleb McCoy was struck in the shoulder, and Carter County Deputy Brigg Pierson was struck in the leg, groin, and chest. While Trooper McCoy and another deputy were able to retreat, Deputy Pierson was seriously wounded and fell down on the porch. Nearby, Corporal Kuessner encouraged and then pleaded for the injured Deputy Pierson to attempt to roll off the porch to a position out of the gunman’s line of fire. Summoning all his strength, Deputy Pierson rolled off the porch and crawled two steps from the residence but then collapsed. Corporal Kuessner then put himself in harm’s way by leaving his covered position to drag Deputy Pierson to behind a vehicle nearby. Master Sergeant Dougherty then ran from his position at a tree line to assist. With Deputy Pierson in medical distress, time was of the essence. Master Sergeant Dougherty, with his M-16 rifle, and Corporal Kuessner, with his service pistol drawn, managed to drag Deputy Pierson to the tree line and an ambulance. After spending four weeks in the hospital, Deputy Pierson was able to return home. He continues to recover through his own strength and perseverance as well as the courage and valiant efforts of Master Sergeant Dougherty and Corporal Kuessner.
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