NOVEMBER 25, 2025 – Six Soldiers with the Tennessee Army National Guard who support the Memphis Safe Task Force provided immediate medical aid to two victims of a car crash on Interstate 40 near the Appling Farms Road exit in Memphis, Nov. 14.
About 6:45 p.m., Soldiers with Murfreesboro’s 269th Military Police Company were driving westbound on I-40 when they witnessed two vehicles collide. The off-duty Soldiers immediately pulled over to the side of the highway to secure the scene and render aid while waiting for first responders to arrive.
The six Soldiers include Spc. Johnathan Bradley, Spc. Hannah Cole, Spc. Laredo Hixson, Spc. Joshua Hodges, Spc. Kaitlynn Pope and Private 1st Class Evan Gore.
When the crash occurred, Cole pulled over while Gore immediately called 911. Pope, a medic, along with Bradley and Hodges, ran to the victims to assess the situation and provide aid.
One driver was found with a severe head laceration. Pope immediately provided life-saving care, applying pressure to the wound and keeping the victim awake and alert until Emergency Medical Services arrived. Bradley and Hodges assessed the second vehicle and confirmed the driver did not require immediate medical attention.
Cole and Hixson helped make the area safe around the vehicles and directed traffic until police arrived.
“These Soldiers personify selfless service by providing critical response to these citizens,” said Lt. Col. Mitchell Thompson, commander of the 117th Military Police Battalion. “This represents the highest level of duty and personally drives home why I serve: duty, honor and commitment. I am proud of my Joint Task Force members.”
As a testament to the National Guard’s motto, “Always Ready, Always There,” these Guard members helped the victims and ensured everyone involved and nearby remained safe.
By Tennessee National Guard