Four people were recognized for their quick action in rendering aid and helping save the life of a Kentucky State Police trooper shot near Bluegrass Airport last summer.
Gov. Andy Beshear, Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman and Kentucky State Police honored Jimmy Alexander, Jessica Alexander, Taylor Hall and Bluegrass Airport Police Officer Adam Arnold with Citations for Meritorious Achievement, the highest honor KSP can award a civilian or non-KSP employee, for their heroic acts of service when they rendered aid to Trooper Jude Remilien and called for emergency services.
The body-worn-camera footage from the July 13, 2024, incident was released by state police (Warning: Graphic content).
“These individuals displayed the kind of courage and character that cannot be taught,” KSP Commissioner Phillip Burnett Jr. said. “They saw someone in need, and without a second thought, they acted. Because of them, Trooper Remilien is alive today.”
Beshear, in praising Remilien, spoke about the trooper’s character and dedication to law enforcement.
“We are thankful Trooper Remilien is recovering well and is here with us today,” Beshear said. “You exemplify law enforcement’s commitment to giving your all for your community and your commonwealth, and your story of resilience is one that inspires so many, including me.”
Thursday was the first time Remilien met the individuals who saved his life, and he was unabashedly grateful for their life-saving actions.
“It’s so great to finally meet this team of heroes. They didn’t hesitate to come on scene and assist me. It’s an honor to stand next to you in-person today while you receive the Citation for Meritorious Achievement. All four of you will forever hold a special place in my heart.”
One of the day’s heroes, Jimmy Alexander, said he and the other Good Samaritans — including his wife and daughter — were in “the right place at the right time.”
“We were arriving at the airport when we saw the incident happen,” Alexander said. “We immediately ran to Trooper Remilien’s aid, when Jessica and Taylor, who are nurses, did what they knew to do until officer Arnold arrived and provided assistance. We were all in the right place at the right time, and we are so thankful that he is okay.”
Beshear, in July, named the four Kentuckians Team Kentucky All-Stars and commissioned them Kentucky Colonels, the highest honor awarded by the commonwealth.
Also shot in House’s rampage were Combs’ husband, Randy Combs, as well as Gumm’s husband, and longtime pastor of the church, Jerry Gumm.
(Photo l-r: Bluegrass Airport Police Officer Adam Arnold, Trooper Jude Remilien, Jessica Alexander, Taylor Alexander Hall, Jimmy Alexander)
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
