Burning Vehicle Rescue Earns Cranford Firefighter Valor Award

CRANFORD, NJ — A Cranford firefighter is being recognized for a dramatic rescue on the Garden State Parkway that officials say helped save a person’s life.

Firefighter Travis Literate recently received the 200 Club Valor Award for his actions during a crash on May 12, 2025, according to officials.

Officials said Literate came upon an overturned vehicle that had caught fire and immediately helped members of the Clark Police Department rescue a trapped occupant from inside the vehicle despite the dangerous conditions and active flames.

According to officials, his quick actions directly resulted in the preservation of human life.

“We commend his bravery, professionalism, and commitment to public safety, which exemplify the highest traditions of the fire service,” officials said in a statement.