When Demorrist Shaw saw flames coming from his neighbor’s home in November, the Spanish Fort teen kicked in a door, entered the burning building and rescued its trapped 83-year-old occupant.
On Jan. 7, the Spanish Fort Volunteer Fire Department and City Council recognized the 18-year-old for his action, presenting Shaw with a Civilian Medal of Honor and certificate.
Fire Chief Roger Few said Shaw’s action saved the life of 83-year-old Billie Ray Edwards on Nov. 29, 2019.
“He had determined that the neighbor was still trapped in the house,” Few said in making the presentation. “He attempted to make a couple of entries at different locations. Ultimately, he kicked in the back door, located the neighbor and removed him to safety..."