Colonel Michael A. Turner, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, proudly recognized several outstanding employees during the 2025 awards ceremony, held at the Wyndham Executive Center in Columbia. Among the honored were dedicated members of Troop G, whose bravery and quick thinking made a life-saving difference in two separate incidents.
Trooper Lucas J. Combs and Sergeant Christopher A. Kimes – Life-Saving Intervention
On October 29, 2024, Trooper Lucas J. Combs and Sergeant Christopher A. Kimes responded to a call involving a man making suicidal threats. Upon arriving at the residence, they were met by the man’s wife, who revealed that her husband had recently been released from the hospital following a prior suicide attempt. She told the officers that he had since barricaded himself inside the garage, armed with multiple weapons and a running motor, and had threatened to shoot anyone who tried to intervene.
Despite the risks, Trooper Combs and Sergeant Kimes approached the garage and detected strong fumes escaping from beneath the door—clear signs of carbon monoxide poisoning in progress. Recognizing the urgency, Trooper Combs lifted the garage door, allowing them to enter the toxic environment where they discovered the man semi-conscious, surrounded by multiple loaded firearms, knives, empty pill bottles, and alcohol. A lawn mower was also running inside, contributing to the carbon monoxide levels.
Working quickly, the officers moved the man into fresh air and ensured he received immediate medical attention. Their courage and decisive actions likely saved his life.
Corporal Jonathan M. Heimsoth and Sergeant Brian D. Foster – Swift-Water Rescue Heroes
Just a week later, on November 5, 2024, Troop G members Corporal Jonathan M. Heimsoth and Sergeant Brian D. Foster faced treacherous conditions during a flash flood rescue in Texas County. Two people and five dogs were trapped in a cabin as water surged through the first floor, reaching depths of four feet.
With access routes cut off by floodwaters, the officers had to adapt quickly. Unable to reach the home by vehicle, they launched their inflatable rescue boat nearly three-quarters of a mile from the cabin, navigating strong currents and waves reaching up to six feet. Braving dangerous conditions, Heimsoth and Foster reached the stranded couple and their pets, ferrying all safely to dry ground.
Their actions demonstrated not only skill and bravery, but also a deep commitment to protecting lives—both human and animal—under extreme circumstances.
Colonel Turner praised all award recipients for their selfless service and commitment to the values of the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
