There is so much bad news that when a great story comes around it is so important to recognize it.
That is what happened in Arizona as New England Patriots offensive lineman Justin Herron has been honored for being one of two people who helped prevent a sexual assault against a 71-year-old woman.
The incident happened in a park in Tempe on Saturday.
Murry Rogers, who assisted with Herron, said the victim called him and Herron “her angels.”
“If not for the swift actions of Mr. Justin Herron and Mr. Murry Rogers, this vicious attack could’ve been much worse,” Tempe police Detective Natalie Barela said.
The Tempe Police Department presented Rogers and Herron with Outstanding Service Awards on Wednesday.
Herron said he heard screaming and knew he had to help.
“At that moment, I was in shock,” Herron said Wednesday. “It was 11 a.m., middle of the day, in a very open field and the fact that it happened there at that time was just very shocking. I wish I could tell you what I was thinking, but I could just tell someone needed help. All I could do was rush myself over there to make sure I could help the victim and I could comfort her and be the best person I can be.”
Herron, who is in Arizona for offseason training, added his upbringing taught him to spring into action.
“My parents always talked to me about it, if there’s someone in need, make sure you can help them and be the best you can be,” Herron said. “I don’t want this to happen again, I don’t want to have to save someone else’s life again, but I’m glad I was able to save someone’s life on Saturday.”