In a heartfelt ceremony on Thursday, West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey and state lawmakers honored two first responders for their life-saving bravery. Among the recipients was Capt. Donald Larsen of the New Martinsville Police Department, who was awarded the prestigious Medal of Valor for his heroic actions in 2008.
Capt. Larsen, a 42-year veteran of the New Martinsville force, was recognized for saving two lives during a welfare check on January 4, 2008. At the time, he was a patrolman responding to a call at a local residence. Inside, he found two unconscious individuals suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning. Without hesitation, he pulled them to safety and returned to the home to search for others—only to be rushed to the emergency room himself due to exposure.
“Thanks to Donald Larsen and his quick actions, both lives were saved that day,” Governor Morrisey said.
Born in Huntington and a U.S. Army veteran, Larsen joined the New Martinsville Police Department in 1983. The governor praised his commitment to the community:
“Think about that – 42 years. He’s dedicated his life to the New Martinsville community. It’s a beautiful part of the state.”
Advertisement
Also honored with the Medal of Valor was Lake Volunteer Firefighter Darrell Lambert of Logan County. On February 27, 2021, Lambert responded to a house fire just two minutes after hearing the call over his scanner. Arriving in his personal vehicle and without protective gear, Lambert rushed inside the burning structure to rescue a woman still trapped inside. He sustained burns to his forehead, neck, and ears during the rescue.
“Darrell didn’t hesitate… He dragged the woman out and drove her to safety,” said Morrisey. “He did this without concern for his own life.”
The Medal of Valor, established in 2020, is West Virginia’s highest honor for emergency medical personnel, firefighters, and law enforcement officers. It recognizes those who go above and beyond the call of duty, risking their own lives to protect others. Recipients are recommended by the First Responders Honor Board under the Department of Homeland Security.
During Thursday’s ceremony, both the West Virginia Senate and House of Delegates passed resolutions honoring Larsen and Lambert, acknowledging their extraordinary acts of bravery.
Governor Morrisey closed the event by celebrating the spirit of service across the state:
“West Virginia is really proud of our heroes… We have some of the best first responders, law enforcement officials, and volunteers in the country. As governor, I want to do everything I can to support them.”
Advertisement
Larsen and Lambert’s courage serves as a powerful reminder of the dedication and sacrifice made daily by first responders throughout West Virginia.
