Rapid City firefighters receive Ben Franklin Award for Valor after high-risk rescue
Iain Hoey
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IAFC recognises firefighters for high-risk rescue
The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has named four members of the Rapid City Fire Department as recipients of the 2025 Ben Franklin Award for Valor.
According to the IAFC, firefighters Kyle Steen, Nick Jasnoch and Morgan Helton, along with Fire Chief Jason Culberson, were honoured for their actions during a vehicle extrication and high-risk gas leak.
The IAFC said the incident took place on 9 April 2024 at 10:41pm in Rapid City, South Dakota.
Emergency crews were dispatched after a vehicle, travelling at an estimated 117 miles per hour, became airborne for more than 50 feet before colliding with a three-storey apartment building.
The IAFC reported that the crash damaged the building between the second and third floors and struck the main gas line, causing a leak at explosive limits.
Actions taken by first responders
The IAFC said Steen, Jasnoch and Helton, collectively known as M1, were among the first to arrive at the scene.
It stated that they identified the severity of the gas leak and the condition of the surviving occupant in the vehicle.
The IAFC noted that the team removed the passenger and delivered life-saving treatment without protective gear or breathing apparatus.
It added that the passenger’s survival was due to the quick response of the firefighters.
The IAFC said Culberson coordinated the evacuation of 50 residents from the building, working with Pennington County Emergency Management and other agencies.
Recognition from IAFC leadership
IAFC president and board chair Chief Josh Waldo said: “The Ben Franklin Award for Valor, named after Benjamin Franklin, our nation’s first volunteer fire chief, is our most prestigious award, honouring firefighters who go above and beyond in the name of public safety.
“We are grateful to this year’s winners.
“Your training, leadership and bravery are a tremendous inspiration.”
Comments from Motorola Solutions
Frank Galvin, vice president of Motorola Solutions, said: “The heroes of the Rapid City Fire Department chose to put themselves at great risk to save lives in an extraordinary display of selflessness.
“The challenges M1 faced are a reminder of how complex and dangerous firefighting is as a profession.
“One issue can quickly escalate into another, requiring first responders to be observant, adaptable and quick to act.
“On behalf of everyone at Motorola Solutions, thank you for your bravery and congratulations on this well deserved recognition.”
Presentation of awards
The IAFC said medals of honour were given to Steen, Jasnoch and Helton on 14 August 2025.
It stated that the presentation took place during the Fire-Rescue International conference in Orlando, Florida.
The IAFC confirmed that Culberson received a plaque recognising his leadership during the incident.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The IAFC’s account of this incident highlights the operational risks faced when structural damage is combined with a hazardous materials release.
The response illustrates the importance of rapid situational assessment and coordinated action when managing multiple simultaneous threats.
The incident also shows the role of leadership in directing multi-agency cooperation during high-risk evacuations.
Recognition events such as the Ben Franklin Award for Valor may contribute to knowledge-sharing and awareness among emergency services.
Rapid City firefighters receive Ben Franklin Award for Valor after high-risk rescue: Summary
The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has announced four Rapid City Fire Department members as recipients of the 2025 Ben Franklin Award for Valor.
The IAFC said firefighters Kyle Steen, Nick Jasnoch and Morgan Helton, along with Fire Chief Jason Culberson, were recognised for actions during a vehicle extrication and gas leak.
The IAFC reported that the incident occurred on 9 April 2024 in Rapid City, South Dakota.
It said a vehicle crashed into a three-storey apartment building at high speed, damaging the structure and striking the main gas line.
The IAFC stated that Steen, Jasnoch and Helton removed a passenger and delivered treatment without protective gear.
It confirmed that Culberson coordinated the evacuation of 50 residents.
The IAFC said medals were presented to the firefighters on 14 August 2025.
It stated that Culberson received a plaque recognising his leadership.
