Two West Virginia first responders received the state’s highest honor Thursday from both chambers of the Legislature and from the governor. The men were awarded one of the state’s highest civilian honors, the Medal of Valor, for putting their own lives at risk to rescue perfect strangers.
A 39-year veteran of the Lake Volunteer Fire Department in Logan County, Darrel Lambert was off duty in his personal car on Feb. 17, 2021, when he heard a call for a large structural fire not far from where he was. On the scene in two minutes, a man called from an open door that his wife was inside the burning building. Morrisey said Lambert risked his own life to save hers.
“Daryl didn’t hesitate,” Morrisey said. “He entered the dwelling, he dragged the woman out of the house, and he drove down the driveway, to safety. And let’s put this in context. Daryl did this without any gear or concern about his own safety. He suffered burns to his forehead, the back of his neck and his ear.”
Donald Larsen, now a captain, joined the Martinsville Police Department after a stint in the U.S. Army. He was conducting a welfare check for residents in New Martinsville on Jan. 4, 2008 and found two people, both unresponsive, on the floor of a home.
“They were not moving,” Morrisey said.
“Donald made entry into the residence that was filled with fumes of carbon monoxide. He then proceeded to remove the individuals from outside the structure. He then entered the residence again to make sure there were no other people inside before returning to the two victims, Donald was sent to the emergency room, where he was admitted for levels of carbon monoxide in a system.”
Two more lives were saved that day, Morrisey said.
“And now, because of these amazing acts, it is my distinct honor to present the West Virginia Medal of valor to Darryl Lambert and Donald Larsen,” Morrisey said as he handed the medal to each man.
Recipients are recommended by an advisory First Responders Honors Board through the Department of Homeland Security.
