Courtesy of South King Fire and Rescue:

Lt. John Riley and Firefighter Rob Pysher were recognized at a July 24 South King Fire and Rescue commissioner’s meeting for their efforts in saving the life of their fellow Engine 66 crew member, Wynn Loiland.

This past November, Loiland was struck by an out-of-control vehicle while at the scene of a roll-over accident on I-5. Riley and Pysher reacted swiftly and professionally despite the horror of watching their engine driver struck and pinned between two vehicles, the fire district reports. Their quick thinking and immediate actions saved Loiland’s life. Loiland suffered a severe head injury and spent several months in the hospital until he was finally able to go home last March to continue his healing process.

Loiland does not remember the accident or most of those many months in the hospital, but he remembers his friends and co-workers and was able to be at the recognition event to share his appreciation with his former crew. Loiland, 52, ultimately decided to retire last month, ending a 32-year career.

Also recognized at the event was Jeremy Schenewerk, the town truck driver who arrived at the crash at the moment Loiland was struck. He jumped into action to help secure the area and to check on the occupants of the car. There were no injuries in the car that had slid on the icy road. The previously rolled-over vehicle was found to be unoccupied.