(Left-Right) Commission President Weaver,
Chief Deputy Ballengee, Zeke Quick
and Aaron Allison
Three young men from Calhoun were recognized yesterday for their bravery in
trying to rescue a a 16-year-old girl whose car plunged into the West Fork River.
"James 'Aaron' Allison and Zeke Quick of Chloe made heroic efforts to save the life of
Cindy Self last June 16th," said Chief Deputy Carl Ballengee. .
Thomas Husk, who assisted the other teenagers, could not be present for the
ceremony, but was given a Certificate of Honor earlier in the day.
The ceremony was held in front of the Calhoun courthouse, and was attended by
several family members.
The awards were presented by Chief Deputy Sheriff Carl Ballengee and Commission
President Bob Weaver.
Chief Deputy Carl Ballengee said "This was a very tragic accident. I felt these men
needed to be recognized for the efforts they exhibited."
Calhoun Commission president Bob Weaver said "It speaks well for these young men,
and the actions they took that day. It is important to our community to recognize
them today."
Sheriff Allen Parsons said their actions reminded him of the scripture, "Greater
love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."
Zeke Quick (left) Aaron Allison (right), not shown Thomas Husk
Deputy Ballengee said "Shortly after 5 p.m. on June 16th, Calhoun EMS, the
Arnoldsburg Fire Department and the Calhoun Sheriff's Department responded to
Altizer Road where a car was in the river on its top."
Ballengee said Zeke Quick and Aaron Allison saw the accident happen. Quick took
immediate action, getting out of his truck and jumping in the West Fork to try and
rescue the girl.
Allison drove to a nearby residence to call 911. Allison returned to the scene where
Quick and Thomas Husk were trying to get Cindy Self out of the vehicle, which was
covered by water.
Allison hooked a chain to the submerged auto and then all three removed Self from
the swollen river. Quick started CPR on the victim, until Calhoun EMS arrived on the
scene.
Unfortunately, Cindy Self could not be resuscitated.
See article on tragedy NEWS ARCHIVES June 16, 2003.
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