ST. LOUIS — A young boy’s quick thinking and bravery saved his father and brother during a family camping trip to Washington State Park last year. Louis Miklovic was awarded the Public Safety Civilian Partnership Award for alerting park rangers after his father Josh and younger brother Peter fell off a cliff while hiking.
The incident occurred during the Mikovec family’s annual camping trip on a trail to Big Foot Cave. Josh Mikovec grabbed his 6-year-old son Peter when they exited but he lost his footing, causing both to tumble down the bluff. Louis, who remained on the trail, immediately sprang into action.
Instead of attempting a dangerous rescue himself, Louis ran back to find help. He found a ranger’s vehicle and told the officer about the accident. The ranger then drove Louis to the lookout point, where a helicopter was able to airlift Josh and Peter to safety.
The father required multiple surgeries and 150 stitches for a nine-inch head laceration. He continues to recover. His son Peter suffered a minor head injury.
The family credits their experience outdoors and Louis’s involvement in scouting for his ability to handle the emergency.
