BEAUFORT, S.C. — Three U.S. Marines stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort took immediate action to save a male driver from a burning vehicle, Aug. 3, 2026, on Parris Island Gateway in Beaufort, demonstrating the courage, initiative and readiness instilled through Marine Corps training.
Cpl. Nathan C. Armstrong, assigned to Combat Logistics Company 23, alongside Cpl. Isaac T. Ames and Cpl. Caleb L. Crawford with Marine Wing Support Squadron 273, responded to the burning vehicle near 67 Parris Island Gateway. Faced with a rapidly developing emergency, the Marines worked together to remove the individual from danger.
Armstrong, who worked as a firefighter before joining the Marine Corps, relied on both his previous experience and his Marine Corps training to assess the scene and determine how they could assist. The Marines approached a Beaufort County sheriff’s deputy at the scene and obtained a metal bar to pry open the vehicle’s door. When they realized they could not open the door, they adapted their approach. The Marines broke the vehicles window, gained access to the occupant and pulled him to safety.
“We instinctively stepped in to help however we could, that's what we have been trained to do,” said Armstrong.
After removing the driver from the burning vehicle, their response shifted from rescue to providing immediate care. Drawing from their Tactical Combat Casualty Care training, the Marines remained with the unconscious individual, working to keep his airway open and stabilizing his lower body to prevent further injury while waiting for emergency medical personnel to arrive.
When paramedics arrived, Armstrong, Ames and Crawford continued assisting first responders. Working alongside Beaufort County sheriff’s deputies, the Marines helped lift the individual onto a stretcher so he could be transported to a hospital for further evaluation and treatment.
“Being mentally ready 24/7, assessing any situation, and quickly deciding on the best course of action has been instilled in us through the Marine Corps. As Marines, we are expected to remain prepared and ready to help at any given moment,” said Ames.
“These Marines are humble in telling their story; they put themselves selflessly in harm's way to rescue a stranger, without hesitation or concern for their own personal safety”. Said Captain Andrew P. Faucett, Captain of the Recruiting, Staffing & Training Division for the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office.
From assessing the burning vehicle and adapting when the initial attempt to reach the individual was unsuccessful, to providing care until emergency medical personnel arrived, the Marines relied on teamwork, initiative and composure throughout the response.