Robert L. Tighe rescued Samuel W. Bass from burning, Tyler, Texas, January 24, 1989. Bass, 63, was inside his burning automobile following a three-vehicle highway accident. Flames entered the car as he was attempting to exit it. Approaching the scene, Tighe, 31, bus driver, witnessed the accident; he ran to Bass’s car, where he opened the driver’s door, burning his hand. Despite growing flames and intense heat, Tighe leaned inside the car and pulled Bass, but Bass did not move. Tighe retreated for air, then again approached the car, partially entered, and unfastened Bass’s safety belt. He backed out of the car and pulled Bass, removing him. Tighe led Bass to safety moments before the car was engulfed in flame. Tighe required hospital treatment for first- and second-degree burns to his right hand and right foot, and he recovered. Bass, hospitalized for injuries sustained in the crash, recovered from a minor burn.
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