I really love hearing great stories about people who do something not for attention but just to help their fellow man, to make a better world for all of us. There are always bold headlines for the sad/bad perpetrators, but it’s not too often that we learn about the simply good things someone does.
That’s why we had a special reason to smile when the headline in Tuesday’s newspaper touted the “above and beyond” actions of Porter County officer Paul Czupryn, who put the lives of others before his own.
When an allegedly intoxicated driver was driving wildly near the fireworks crowds in Valparaiso, Czupryn ran alongside the vehicle, ultimately opened the driver’s side door and yanked on the steering wheel to keep the car from veering into the unaware bystanders, according to the police report.
As Czupryn fell off the jeep, the driver took off, and Czupryn called for help, got his motorcycle and chased the man to keep an accident from happening. According to the police report, when Czupryn caught up to the vehicle, he ran to the driver’s side and reached in and shut off the ignition. Case done. No fanfare, no applause, no knowledge by the hundreds watching the sky light up that a young man might have just prevented a tragedy.
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To this young officer, it was his job, and it’s why he became a law officer. But to me — and I hope to you — he is an unsung hero. I am in agreement with Patrol Cmdr. Phil Miller who said, “He’s saving lives. We should all be very thankful for his efforts.”
I know I am thankful. You see, my family and I were part of that crowd and didn’t even know we were in danger. Thank you, officer Paul Czupryn, for your unselfish act — you are my pet person of the week, and I pray that you remain ours for a very long time.
Congratulations to Jerry Wagenblast, who was recently honored by receiving the Sagamore of the Wabash award for his 50 years of caring about kids. Wagenblast has voluntarily served on the Hoosier Boys State staff and has helped boys and girls become better citizens. Many of the thousands of lives he has touched follow a path into serving their communities, state and nation. His influence has a lasting impact on the young men and women with his commitment of learn by doing.
As a retired math professor at Valparaiso University, the well-being of the students was always Jerry’s concern, and this attitude carried over into his involvement with the Hoosier Boys State. A humble man, he was stunned by this award, Indiana’s highest honor for distinguished service. But those who know him weren’t surprised, knowing that he is most deserving of this award. God bless you for many more years to come for being such a positive influence on students, Jerry.
At 2 p.m. Sunday, July 26, visit with Corrie Ten Boom at the Valparaiso YMCA pavilion. This amazing woman’s story will be re-enacted by Gayle Haas, and is a “must” for all of us, from the youngest to the oldest. She is such a part of the history of World War II as a holocaust survivor, a resistant fighter and a devout Christian. If you have time, read her book, “The Hiding Place” before you come and listen to a life we can only be awed by.
The presentation is free, so there is every reason to learn more about history while being entertained. Then I hope you have a great day because you deserve it. Thanks for reading. Fly your flag.
Lorrie Woycik is a freelance columnist for the Post-Tribune.