Title
To Recognize Officer Rufus Goodwin for Heroic Actions Taken as a Member of the Columbus Division of Police
Body
WHEREAS, On Thursday, December 22, Officer Rufus Goodwin and his partner were called to home engulfed in smoke and flames. A mother and her 5 children were trapped inside; and
WHEREAS, The children escaped from the house by jumping from the porch roof into the arms of neighbors, who had come to the family’s aid. But the mother seemed to be frozen with fear and was unable to jump; and
WHEREAS, Officer Goodwin heroically entered the house and made his way through the smoke to the window where the mother was waiting. Grabbing her hand Officer Goodwin pulled her through the smoke to safety; and
WHEREAS, Officer Goodwin was later hospitalized with smoke inhalation, but returned to patrol on Christmas Day; and
WHEREAS, Officer Goodwin represents the best of law enforcement. On that day, he put himself in harm’s way because of his dedication to the residents of Columbus. Because of his efforts this family was able to spend the holidays together; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
That this Council does hereby express its appreciation for the outstanding service of Officer Rufus Goodwin for his heroic actions in rescuing a mother of five from a house fire on December 22.