OLYMPIA…In 1999, legislation sponsored by Sen. Don Benton, R-Vancouver, was signed into law creating the state Medal of Valor to honor life-saving acts by citizens. This year, the first recipients are Dennis Kinsey of Battle Ground and Travis Jackson of Vancouver.

Both men stopped at a car accident on Highway 500 on Jan. 18, 2005, to render assistance. Together they were able to pull Raymond Perviski from his burning car and call 9-1-1. This action saved Perviski’s life.

“The Medal of Valor, which will be presented to Dennis and Travis on Feb. 20, recognizes their courage in a special way,” Benton said. “Everyday citizens become extraordinary heroes when they act to save a life without regard for their own safety. We should honor them, and do so in a way their families will know and understand their bravery for generations to come.”

Kinsey and Jackson received word of their selection last week from Secretary of State Sam Reed. The men were nominated by Benton and Rep. Richard Curtis, R-La Center.

For more information contact Penny Drost
at (360) 786-7522
or penny.drost@leg.wa.gov