Chief Randy Fogle: his Statement After Helping Woman who was Abused

Branson Fire Rescue Division Chief Randy Fogle provided a comment to Ozarks DynaCom’s News Department about his recent action to save a woman who was being abused.

“I don’t necessarily have a quote regarding the actions taken for the event. I do think that being in the right place at the right time helped avoid [keep] this individual from further abuse from her partner,” Fogle said in a statement to Ozarks DynaCom. He added that those were her words. “It was a team effort from me recognizing the couple, watching their actions and notifying the authorities.” He said it “also helped that the first responding officer was close by and was able to get on scene before they left the area.” Fogle also said that the woman should “be commended for recognizing me as someone that could provide assistance and having the courage to take action by mouthing the words help me.”

Fogle was honored as Employee of the Month during the Dec. 14 Branson Board of Aldermen meeting. Alderman Ruth Denham presented him with the award. “This award is to recognize employees who have gone above and beyond, and whose performance exemplifies the City of Branson values.”

Denham said that Fogle received the award because of his “observance and vigilance that got a woman in our community out of a bad domestic situation.” “This woman,” Denham continued, “happened to pass by Chief Fogle while he was in his car and mouthed the words "help me" several times. Chief Fogle immediately took action that led to the woman getting help. She returned to the fire station later to thank Chief Fogle and said he had saved her life.”

Fogle made additional remarks in his statement to Ozarks DynaCom. “God places us in many positions throughout life. We never know when opportunities may arise to help our neighbors and do good works for each other. Someone has said that before, but it is true. It is my opinion [that] this is why we become police officers, firefighters, medics and dispatchers, for example. We all want to do the best we can in life and to assist those in need.”