Two Missouri State Highway Patrol officers were honored April 5 for their efforts in a November 2024 flood rescue in Texas County.
Cpl. Jonathan Heimsoth and Sgt. Brian Foster of Texas County were among patrol employees recognized for their actions at an awards ceremony in Columbia.
Heimsoth and Foster received a call in Texas County regarding two individuals and five dogs trapped inside a cabin. Flood water had entered the first floor of the cabin, and the water was already approximately 4 feet deep. Due to the flash flooding, they were unable to get close to the cabin to launch their rescue boat.
Foster and Heimsoth drove approximately three-quarters of a mile from the cabin where they were able to deploy their inflatable rescue boat into knee-deep water. In an effort to reach the home, Heimsoth and Foster were met with swift currents as well as 5 and 6-foot surges. Upon arrival at the cabin, the officers were able to ferry the stranded man, woman and their five dogs to safety.
Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hospkins was the keynote speaker.in his speech, he said, “It’s an honor to stand before this distinguished crowd, especially in this room, filled with so many who understand the true meaning of service, sacrifice and strength. In every corner of Missouri, I’ve seen the same spirit — integrity, honor and a fierce commitment to community. These are not just words on a department model, they are lived values, and they are passed down from veteran officers to rookies, from one generation to the next. That’s the power of legacy.”