CENTERVILLE, IOWA -- A Centerville man has been honored by Iowa Governor Terry Branstad for being a hero.
On January 27, 2011, while leaving Casey's General Store on Highway 5 in Centerville, Bobby Heriford and his girlfriend noticed that one of the homes across the street was on fire. He called 911, and darted into the home to save Samantha Anthony, 21 of Centerville, and Georgia Shondel, 2, of Centerville.
On August 17, 2011, he was honored by Governor Brandstad at the Iowa State Fair with a Lifesaving with Valor award, an honor given only to those who risk their own lives to save the lives of others. Heriford said by far, it's the biggest achievement in his life and he would do it again in a heartbeat.
"I don't know who would just drive by a burning house and not do anything," said Bobby Heriford. "So, it just seemed like that was the normal thing to do to me, you know, that's what anybody would do, I hope."
The entire family escaped the house fire, thanks to Heriford's help. He sustained minor burns to his ears but said that healed a long time ago. He said he stays in touch with the Shondels and occasionally goes to their home to have dinner.
Here is a link where you can read about the other people who won awards at the Governor's Lifesaving Awards Ceremony.
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