Command Chief’s heroic act recognized by peers

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Andria J. Allmond
  • 512th AW Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del --  The Anne Arundel County Police Foundation recognized 512th Airlift Wing Command Chief Master Sgt. William T. Wild III at the 18th annual awards banquet held in Glen Burnie, Md., May 12.

Chief Wild received the silver star award, the department's second-highest honor, for risking his life to save an individual from their burning vehicle July 3, 2009.

"This is something that I'd like to think anyone would do," said Chief Wild. "While I appreciate being recognized, I never thought of it as an act of heroism. I was the first officer to respond to that call and was just doing my job."

Responding to a vehicle accident at 2:30 a.m., Chief Wild learned that one of the drivers involved was unconscious and still inside the automobile as it burst into flames. He proceeded to rescue the victim, who was wedged between the front and rear seats. After removing the individual, he assisted the paramedics on the scene until the injured party was transported to the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center at the University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, Md.

"I've known (Chief) Wild for a long time," said Anne Arundel Chief of Police Col. James Teare, Sr. "He exemplifies professionalism and is an asset to the police department and to public safety. We're glad that we can share him with the Air Force."

The silver star is awarded for acts of extraordinary police work involving grave personal danger; protecting the life of another; or effecting arrest where circumstances indicate that firearms or other deadly weapons could have been used against the police officer. This is Chief Wild's second silver star, receiving his first in 1994 for his response to a domestic disturbance.

Although a police officer's job may be dangerous, Chief Wild's family feels secure in that his training will ensure his safety.

"He's had a lot of incidences like this during his career," said Betz Wild, who has been married to the command chief since 1989. "And when I ask him about it, he always states that he was following his training. I have total confidence that his training is what's going to keep him safe."

Chief Wild also credits his military background to his success as a police officer.

"From (basic military training) and on up, we learn skills and gain mental strength through the military," he said. "I feel there is a natural correlation between my civilian and military job. While the uniform may change, the values remain the same."