Sheriff Wilz awards medals at county board meeting

By Robert Cloud

Waupaca County Sheriff Tim Wilz presented the Civil Medal of Gallantry to four citizens at the Jan. 18 county board meeting.

Receiving the award in person were Karly Gunnering, Bryan Austin and Keri Tyler. Kelly Baehman also received an award, but was unable to attend the meeting.

The award was for their efforts in saving the life of Justice Anderson, who was involved in a fiery crash late last year.

Shortly before 4 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 24, 2021, the county received a 911 call regarding a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of State Highway 22 and County Trunk K in the town of Farmington.

According to the sheriff’s office, a northbound tractor-trailer collided with Anderson’s vehicle as she was making a left turn onto County K.

Both vehicles went into the southeast ditch.

Wilz said witnesses quickly responded to the crash.

They pulled Anderson from her burning vehicle before it was engulfed in flames.

“Working together, they were able to break the window and have Justice unlock the door,” Wilz said. “They cut the seat belt and the air bags and removed Justice in a blanket.”

Wilz said the four people recognized the medical emergency and took immediate action without any regard for their own safety.

“In my opinion, if it wasn’t for their bravery, Justice would not be here with us today,” Wilz said.

Anderson was airlifted by Theda Star. She has not fully recovered from her injuries and attended the county board meeting in a wheelchair.