31 Years Later, Hero Given Star Of Valor

From The Shawnee News-Star ~ Retired educator and retired Oklahoma Army National Guard Col. Ernest M. Carter recently received the Oklahoma Star of Valor for his actions in saving 200 lives more than 30 years ago.

Oklahoma Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Harry M. Wyatt III presented the award to Carter, which was given for Carter's actions during an explosion 31 years ago at Roosevelt Central Elementary School in Seminole.

According to a citation accompanying the award, Carter "demonstrated indomitable courage on Dec. 5, 1975, while evacuating more than 200 faculty and students from an imminent natural gas explosion that ultimately destroyed the school."

After remaining inside and ensuring the building was completely evacuated, Carter exited the building about one minute before the blast destroyed the school.

"This award is pretty rare and authorized by the governor (of Oklahoma) to recognize (Oklahoma) guardsmen who go beyond the call of duty by putting themselves at risk of personal injury," Wyatt said.

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