DES MOINES, Iowa (KTIV) -
Some people just can't help themselves. When someone needs help, they act, without thinking. That's what two Sioux City brothers did last year after a fiery highway crash. Now, the state is saying thanks.
It all happened last November. A quiet drive home became an unforgettable moment for Cameron Peirce and his twin brother Riley. They were outside of town, headed south on Highway 75. A payloader behind them changed lanes and collided with a semi.
"We heard a big boom. We didn't see the accident, but we saw the truck go into the ditch. It was on fire," said Peirce.
The brothers turned around and went to help. First, heading to the burning truck. They found the driver stuck in the cab.
"He was slowly moving around so we both grabbed his legs, and ripped him out. Then carried him to our car," said Peirce.
Cameron then ran to the payloader, which was on its side. He assisted its driver until first responders arrived.
The Peirce brothers' lifesaving actions earned them the "Meritorious Service Award," given to those who, "rendered expeditious service in time of an emergency."
Riley couldn't make it to the ceremony in Des Moines Friday, so Cameron accepted the certificates, handed over by the governor himself.
"We can all be proud that we live in a state where people are so willing to put themselves in harms way to help others," said Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad (R).
That's certainly how the Peirce family feels about the brothers.
"They are so considerate of others. It's something they'd do without even thinking about it," said mother, Patricia Peirce.
Cameron says it feels good to be recognized. And, if you ask him why he helped in the first place, he smiles and says...
"Everyone should do something like that," said Cameron.
Besides the Peirce brothers, 16 others were recognized for similar life saving heroics. That includes a man from Milford, Iowa.
Friday's ceremony is an annual tradition dating back to the 70's.
