Citizen Commendations were in order for Middleton residents Sam Moore and Scotty Sipes in recognition for their response after witnessing a serious motor vehicle accident, which occurred in Middleton, on Tuesday, June 23, 2026. While on the scene, in an act that was described by the Middleton Fire Department as showing “courage, compassion, and a willingness to help others in a time of need”, neither hesitated to render aid to a young woman involved in the accident. On Friday, August 28, 2026, both men were presented with and humbly accepted their awards.”
“There was a car accident involving a young girl. She was driving and rear-ended another vehicle. Her vehicle flipped upside down and slid across the road. She was stuck inside and Scotty and me blocked off traffic and helped her out of the vehicle,” said Sam. “I carried her to the other side of the road, because the crash was so violent it knocked her shoes off of her and I didn’t want her to cut her feet on all the broken glass and the windshield. I’m very thankful we were in the right place at the right time.”
Being in the right place at the right time is not the only good thing that happened that day. It was Sam and Scotty stepping up and helping when they saw someone else in need, instead of doing nothing at all. Both men are employees of the City of Middleton, so helping in their community comes naturally.
“I’m a utility worker for the city of Middleton and have been for the last 10 years,” said Sam, who also works at Middleton fiberglass. “All I can say is we all have to help each other in this world, especially when it comes to the kids. They’re our future and protecting them should be all our number one priority.”
Scotty also agreed with the importance of helping others. Both men were only doing what they hope others would do for their families under the same circumstances.
Sam and Scotty’s actions impressed Middleton Fire Chief Kevin Marcum. He took an oath as a firefighter and appreciates regular citizens having genuine care for others.
“It tells me that there is still hope for the human race, that there are good people in this world who are willing to help others no matter the situation, the color of skin, or how we worship. No greater love hath a man than he would lay down his own life for his brother,” said Chief Marcum.
On that road in June, Sam and Scotty never expected to later be rewarded with anything. Both were surprised and extremely grateful.
“I don’t win many awards, so this one truly meant a lot even though I would do this any day even if I never got an award for it,” said Sam. “It’s just how my dad, Billy Moore, raised me. You always help others in need!”
