Politics & Government
Two Coopersburg Officers Honored During Police Week
Officers were first responders to a dwelling fire Dec.1 and saved a local woman's life
In honor of National Police Week, Coopersburg Council honored two borough police officers for saving resident Mary Litz from a fire at her home on Dec. 1.
Officers Alfred Guzman and Charles Wyckoff III were the first to respond to the Hillside Drive fire call and saw flames at the rear of the property. Upon arriving, they saw Litz’s husband trying to enter the burning garage to get his wife out.
It was a very windy day, Mayor Timothy Paashaus said at council's May 10 meeting, with the flames rapidly spreading. The officers had to break open the garage door -- which was a little difficult, they said -- in order to get to and rescue Litz.
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Paashaus introduced Guzman, who has been with the department one year, and Wyckoff, who has a decade with the department. “We want to honor you on behalf of council and behalf of the residents. We honor the two of you by recognizing your bravery and going beyond the call of duty.”
Litz attended the ceremony, where the mayor read and presented citations to the officers.
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Holding back tears, Litz said: “I thank the officers for saving my life. I wouldn’t be here today if it hadn’t been for them.”
Guzman and Wyckoff thanked council for their awards and said, “It was very hectic that day and I’m glad our actions were able to contribute to saving Mrs. Litz.”
Following a standing ovation and applause, Litz gave each officer a big hug. Each council member also congratulated the officers and thanked them for their dedication.