Springfield police officer honored

Springfield Police Officer Steve Neily was recently honored with a Meritorious Service Medal for his actions during a car fire a year ago. On Oct. 23, 2015, Officer Neily responded to Interstate 91 to assist Vermont State Police with a car accident.

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2016-12-23 / Local Springfield police officer honored SPRINGFIELD — Springfield Police Officer Steve Neily was recently honored with a Meritorious Service Medal for his actions during a car fire a year ago. On Oct. 23, 2015, Officer Neily responded to Interstate 91 to assist Vermont State Police with a car accident. Prior to Officer Neily's arrival, Michael and Marie Lajoice had pulled Gene Farnham from his burning car, moving him approximately 50 feet from the car. Officer Neily, upon arrival, observed small explosions from the burning car, which sent debris into the air. Officer Neily determined Farnham was too close to the burning car. Officer Neily ordered the Lajoices across the interstate, away from the burning car. Officer Neily then dragged Farnham across the interstate to safety. While he was doing so, another explosion occurred, which sent debris in his direction. Springfield Police Chief Douglas Johnston wrote in his commendation letter, "Officer Neily exercised good judgement in directing the Lajoices away and removing Farnham to safety from the burning vehicle. His actions minimized the risk to Farnham suffering further injury from the flames, smoke and flying debris. It is my honor to award Officer Neily for his brave actions on the night of Oct. 23, 2015."