A hero among us

Oct. 25, 2017, was just another day in the life of Travis Cooper, but that day ended up being anything but usual.

In fact, the events of that day led to Cooper being hailed as a hero, and receiving official recognition last week from the United States Postal Service.

A Johnston City native, Cooper was about halfway through his delivery route in Herrin on that day as a carrier assistant for the USPS when he spotted a house fire.

After quickly dialing 911, Cooper located a garden hose but could find no spigot. He began trying to douse the flames with bottled water.

Neighbors soon realized what was happening and came out to help.

"They told me there might be someone inside," said Cooper, who started banging on the door but getting no response.

Neighbors found a bucket and faucet next door and Cooper continued to battle the growing flames while neighbors attempted to waken the sleeping occupant.

Cooper knows well what could have happened. He spent most of his childhood dealing with burns he received when he was just 18 months old.

"It never crossed my mind not to help," said Cooper. "It all happened too fast. I just wanted to keep the fire suppressed until the firefighters could get there."

The father of two and military veteran who is also a member of the Army Reserves, said he later learned that the occupant is actually related to two fellow postal service employees.

Firefighters commended Cooper, a military veteran, for what they called a "life-saving response." The resident escaped injury thanks in part to an effort led by Cooper's actions.

Cooper has been recognized by the USPS for his heroic efforts, but he just shakes off the notoriety.

"I was just in the right place at the right time," he said.