Clinton Co. deputy honored for heroic actions

 CLINTON COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI) – A Clinton County Sheriff’s deputy is being recognized for his heroic actions on the job.

Deputy Thomas Pelling was presented a medal of valor at the Clinton County Courthouse Monday morning.

Back in July, Pelling was one of the first responders after a car crashed into a home and caught fire.

While the four people inside the home escaped, the driver was stuck in her car. Despite flames and thick smoke, Pelling was able to remove the woman.

Pelling was treated for minor injuries and back on the job within hours.

He said while he was just doing his job and that it’s humbling to receive the award.

“It’s a very good feeling to know that I have my department behind me, and that they supported me through everything that had happened with that day and that event,” said Pelling.

Clinton County Sheriff Jeff Ward said, “We’re always running towards danger, we’re always moving towards danger whenever we answer a call, we have to expect something like that could happen.”

Ward said this is the first time the award has been presented within the department.