Oklahoma – ODWC Law Enforcement Chief Nathan Erdman presented the Life Saving Award to five game wardens for their heroic actions beyond the normal course of duty to save lives. Erdman stated that the award is given to law enforcement employees who render extraordinary service to protect others.
“These wardens here today have all gone above and beyond, and most of them have put their life on the line to help somebody else,” Erdman said during the ceremony.
The actions of the awarded game wardens included providing first aid to victims of an accidental gunshot wound and a car crash, saving a child from drowning, and rescuing two teenage boys from drowning below Kaw Lake.
The honored game wardens were Zane Arnold from Johnston County, Spencer Grace from Kay County, Larry Green from Osage County, Cody Jones from Bryan County, and Josey Branch from Payne County.
In addition to the award presentation, the commission accepted a $1,000 donation from the Grand National Quail Club Foundation to fund a concrete sidewalk at the Packsaddle Wildlife Management Area Shooting Range. The sidewalk project, which is part of ongoing improvements, will be supplemented with a 9:1 federal matching grant, bringing the total available funding for the project to $10,000.
ODWC Shooting Range Coordinator Amanda Thomas explained that the need for the sidewalk became apparent after the range opened in 2023, as users reported difficulties in moving their trap throwers due to the sand in the area.
Shaun Cummings, chairman of the Grand National Quail Club Foundation, expressed his gratitude for the continued partnership with the commission, underscoring the importance of their collaboration.
