Thomas P. Gorney rescued Jean M. Smialek from burning, Gibsonia, Pennsylvania, January 6, 1976. When her automobile was involved in a highway accident and fire broke out at its rear end, Mrs. Smialek, 42, was trapped inside. Gorney, 28, mechanic, ran to the vehicle, on which the flames were spreading, and broke the glass in the front door. Extending his arms and head into the automobile, which was filled with dense smoke, Gorney grasped Mrs. Smialek and pulled her through the window opening. Soon afterward the vehicle was enveloped in flames. Mrs. Smialek was removed to a hospital but succumbed three days later.
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