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Fla. jail employees honored for bravery during explosion

A CO paralyzed by the blast and the woman who saved him both received awards

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Kelley Bradford and Chris Hankinson.

Photo North Escambia

By C1 Staff

ESCAMBIA COUNTY, Fla. — Employees of the Escambia County Jail were honored Thursday for rescues and bravery shown during the flooding and jail explosion last April.

The North Escambia reports that Kelley Bradford was recognized with a Civilian Gold Medal of honor and Detention Deputy Chris Hankinson was honored with a Purple Heart.

Hankinson was paralyzed as a result of the natural gas explosion; Bradford saved his life.

“She fought to ensure his survival even though her strength nearly gave out,” said Sheriff David Morgan. “She was determined to do whatever it took to save his life.”

Hankinson was forced to leave his job at the jail to undergo therapy.