City of Clemson Honors Joseph Pope '21
Heathwood Alumnus Honored for Heroism
The City of Clemson recognized Joseph Pope ’21 and his roommate, Charles, for their extraordinary bravery in saving two people from a burning vehicle. Early on September 2, the two were driving back to their apartment when they spotted a truck on fire. As they approached, they realized the driver was still inside, unconscious.
Charles grabbed a hammer from his truck and threw it to Joseph, who smashed the driver’s window. Together, they pulled the man to safety through heavy smoke. The driver told them another passenger was still inside. Joseph and Charles ran back, broke the passenger window, and forced open the damaged door, carrying an unconscious, severely injured young woman out just as flames engulfed the vehicle. They kept her alive until EMS arrived, and she was airlifted from the scene.
A Community’s Gratitude
On the following Monday, every firefighter, police officer, and EMS responder present that night joined in honoring Joseph and Charles. Both young men received a Life-Saving Award for their quick thinking and courageous actions. The young woman they rescued also spoke at the ceremony, personally thanking them for saving her life.
A Rare and Distinguished Honor
Joseph’s parents, Joe and Pamela Pope ’88, shared that he has been selected by the National Council, Boy Scouts of America, to receive the Honor Medal with Crossed Palms—the highest honor in Scouting for saving a life at extreme personal risk.
To put this achievement in perspective: since the award was created in 1924, over 130 million Scouts, 30 million adult volunteers, and 2.5 million Eagle Scouts have served nationwide. The Honor Medal with Crossed Palms has been awarded only 277 times.
This is the first time the award has ever been presented within the Indian Waters Council and likely the first in South Carolina history. We could not be prouder of Joseph and Charles for their selfless heroism.