When a dog became trapped in icy water, local residents tried everything to free her from the culvert—but nothing worked. That’s when Fire Chief Steven Hatfield of the Sunshine Volunteer Fire Department stepped in.
Without a second thought, he plunged into the freezing water, fighting the cold for over 30 minutes to reach the terrified pup. As the minutes passed, hypothermia began to set in, yet he refused to stop.
Help arrived in the form of Brandon Gilbert from the Harlan County Rescue Squad, and together they lifted the dog—now named Grace—to safety. She was taken to a shelter to recover, with her medical care covered by a rescue organization.
Chief Hatfield’s selfless act is a reminder of the risks first responders face every day, and the compassion that drives them. Because of his courage, Grace has a second chance at life—a living proof that kindness and heroism can change everything.