Lexington, Ky. – State officials recognized a local hero this week when the Kentucky House of Representatives awarded 12‑year‑old Avory Woolery a citation of achievement and arranged a meeting with Governor Andy Beshear. Woolery’s quick action saved a man from drowning in the pool of his apartment complex earlier this summer.
Rescue at the Apartment Complex
According to LEX News, Woolery was walking past the community pool when he saw a man struggling underwater. Without hesitation, the boy jumped in, pulled the man to safety, and called for emergency assistance. “He was drowning, and I’m not going to let somebody drown,” Woolery told reporters after the incident.
Recognition by State Leaders
On Wednesday, Woolery appeared before the Kentucky House of Representatives, where lawmakers presented him with a citation of achievement. Rep. Chad Aull praised the boy’s courage, saying, “We hope somebody out there will see this and they’ll think when they’re in the same situation to be a little bit more like Avory.” The governor also met with Woolery to commend his bravery and discuss the importance of community responsibility.
Impact on School and Community
Since the rescue, Woolery has returned to school for the new academic year. His classmates say they are “overwhelmed” by the attention and have been bombarding him with questions about the event. “Try and be the best person you can be whenever someone is in danger or someone just needs a friend,” Woolery advised his peers.
Broader Message
Lawmakers hope Woolery’s example will encourage other young people to act responsibly and look out for one another. The recognition underscores the value placed on personal courage and community service in Kentucky, aligning with the state’s emphasis on strong families and individual liberty.
Woolery’s story has quickly become a point of pride for Lexington residents, illustrating how a single act of bravery can resonate throughout a community and inspire others to follow suit.
Original reporting: WTVQ (Lexington) — read the source article.
