JAMESTOWN, NY – Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-27) presented Timothy H. Wright with the United States Army Soldiers Medal for a distinguished act of heroism while a member of the Army Reserves. 

On November 19, 1990 Mr. Wright rescued an unconscious child from a burning home in Jamestown, New York.  Despite being repelled on his first attempt and injuring his hands, Mr. Wright gained entry into the building and rescued the child from certain death.  After exiting the fiery structure, Wright proceeded to perform first aid on the child. 

 “This long-overdue medal is a demonstration of this Nation’s appreciation for the heroic and selfless sacrifices made by Officer Wright,” said Congressman Higgins.  “Major Wright has gone above and beyond in the call to serve his country and his community.”   

Major Wright has been a member of the Army Reserves since 1986 and has been employed as a Jamestown Police officer since 1987.  Officer Wright was off-duty when he performed the rescue.

As a Reservist, Major Wright has served in tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan. 

Major Wright was nominated to receive the Soldier’s Medal in 1992 however his paperwork was lost in the system for the last 16 years.  After learning of the situation, Congressman Higgins appealed to appropriate federal agencies and recently received the news of the award. 

The Soldier’s Medal, a bronze octagon engraved with the an eagle which includes the words “For Valor,” is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who while serving in any capacity with the Army of the United States, distinguished him/herself by heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy. The performance must have involved personal hazard or danger and the voluntary risk of life under conditions not involving conflict with an armed enemy.  The Soldier's Medal was established by Act of Congress in 1926.