MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Six Soldiers with the Tennessee Army National Guard supporting 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 on Nov. 14, 2025.
At 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 were Spcs. Johnathan Bradley, Hannah Cole, Laredo Hixson, Joshua Hodges and Kaitlynn Pope, and Pfc. 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 had 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 motto, “Always Ready, Always There,” these Guardsmen helped the victims and ensured everyone involved and nearby remained safe.
Related Links
The Official Website of the National Guard | NationalGuard.mil
The National Guard on Facebook | Facebook.com/TheNationalGuard
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