Three Post 6 Troopers Honored for Heroic Floodwater Rescue
DRY RIDGE, Ky. (June 5, 2025)—The Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 6 is proud to recognize the heroic, life-saving efforts of Troopers Justin Corlis, Mitchell Culbertson, and Matthew Pinson. They recently received a surprise honor from the James A. and Martha R. Brown Foundation for their courage and swift action during a dangerous flood rescue in March.
On the evening of March 15, 2025, Grant County emergency officials received a 911 call reporting a van had slid off the roadway and into rising flood water, endangering the lives of five occupants.
Troopers Corlis, Culbertson, and Pinson responded without hesitation. In their mission to reach the stranded individuals, the troopers navigated treacherous terrain, including dense woods and rushing water. The troopers reached the partially submerged van, which was located approximately eight feet from dry land. One trooper stood in waist-deep water to remove the victims from the vehicle, while the other troopers, situated on a nearby bank, helped each person to safety.
Once all five individuals were rescued from the van, the troopers led them back through the treacherous terrain to reach awaiting medical personnel. No one was hurt. The determination, courage, and teamwork of these troopers directly contributed to the successful rescue and upheld the core values of the Kentucky State Police.
Post 6 Commander, Captain Scott Lengle, remarked, “Troopers Corlis, Pinson and Culbertson exhibited extraordinary courage and selflessness in the face of danger. Without hesitation, they entered the water to save lives, placing the safety of others above their own. Their swift actions and steadfast commitment to duty were instrumental in preventing what could have been a devastating tragedy.”
During a recent ceremony, the James A. and Martha R. Brown Foundation surprised the three troopers, who were attending an unrelated event, by honoring them with a $10,000 award to be donated to the non-profit organization of their choice. The troopers unanimously selected the Kentucky State Police Foundation to receive this donation.
“The James A. and Martha R. Brown Foundation really wanted to express our appreciation in a meaningful way,” said Board of Directors Member Ed Culbertson. “What you all did, wading through the deep water, risking your lives to help those people, should be recognized.”
The Kentucky State Police commends these troopers for their valor and unwavering commitment to public safety. Their actions exemplify the agency’s motto: “To Protect and To Serve.”
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