The driver of a van which crashed near Turangi in May, killing three American students, says he will never forget the compassion shown to him by an 8-year-old girl just after the crash.
Stephen Houseman said in a message read out at a ceremony in Turangi yesterday that Michelle O'Brien had led him by the hand to her family's house and wrapped his bleeding arm in towels.
"She was so calm and reassuring to me. I remember feeling distraught and completely overwhelmed and here was this little girl looking into my eyes and telling me to go on. There are many days when I hear and am comforted by the words of that little girl ... I will never forget what you did for us that morning."
There were lumps in more than a few throats as Michelle, her father Kevin O'Brien and their neighbour Prudence Howell were honoured for their actions after the fatal crash on May 12.
The trio were each given awards by the United States Consul and the New Zealand Police at a ceremony for their actions in providing help and care to a group of American students involved in a crash outside their properties.
Two van loads of Boston University students had been heading to the Tongariro National Park to tramp the Tongariro Crossing when one left the road and rolled on State Highway 47. Three students died and one, Meg Theriault, was initially not expected to survive but is now recovering.
While Ms Howell secured the scene and assisted the students, Mr O'Brien, a former ambulance officer, gave first aid and Michelle took those who were mobile to their home and cared for them.
Several people were close to tears as Bay of Plenty road policing manger Inspector Kevin Taylor read out messages from family members of some of the students involved in the crash, including the parents of Austin Brashears, 21, and Daniella Lekhno, 20, who died at the scene.
Particular mention was made of the courage, gentleness and compassion Michelle displayed as she cleaned wounds, provided blankets, held hands and spoke words of comfort.
A message from Debbie Theriault, the mother of Meg Theriault said that in the midst of the sad and tragic crash scene, there were angels present.
"There are no words that can express how grateful Meg and our entire family is for the miracle that the wonderful individuals performed on May 12."
Presenting the awards, US Consul Dana Deree said the Consular Leadership Awards had several different categories but he had chosen "Inspire" awards for the three being honoured.
"For those of us who are in the business of helping, the actions of those on the ground, especially of Michelle, but all three of them were inspiring to us and to the students and families and the entire community."
Bay of Plenty police district commander Superintendant Glen Dunbier also presented them with District Commander's Commendation awards, an award he said was rarely given, especially to members of the public.
The awards acknowledged what the trio had done that day to help the crash victims before and after emergency services arrived.
The ceremony was attended by around 40 people including United States consul Dana Deree, Boston University representatives, members of Turangi Fire Brigade and St John Ambulance, police, family and friends.
Afterwards, in addition to the awards and commendations, Michelle also received a police teddy bear, a pink Boston University tracksuit and the gift of a helicopter flight.
- By Laurilee McMichael
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