Kaine gives valor awards to two troopers

Gov. Timothy M. Kaine awarded two state troopers the Commonwealth Public Safety Medal of Honor yesterday for saving people in a pair of fiery accidents on Interstate 66 in Fairfax County.

Trooper Justin T. Mahalik was recognized for his actions after his police cruiser was hit from behind during a traffic stop in April 2008. Mahalik, who suffered broken bones, a spinal injury and burned legs in the crash, dragged his unconscious passenger to safety as his cruiser burned and ammunition in the trunk exploded.

Trooper Kenneth J. Brown was cited for his actions after a minivan driver had a diabetic seizure and crashed on I-66 in May 2008. The impact caused the minivan to erupt in smoke and flames. Brown, who suffered smoke inhalation, cuts from broken glass and a back strain, was able to pull the driver to safety before the van was engulfed in flames.

The Commonwealth Public Safety Medal of Valor Awards, given annually since 2002, are the highest honors for heroism by police, firefighters and other public safety workers in Virginia.