Whelen names Texas firefighter-paramedic Jason Horne as 2026 Everyday Champion

Whelen Engineering has named Midlothian, Texas firefighter and paramedic Jason Horne the 2026 Whelen Everyday Champion for helping rescue three children from an overturned boat on July 4, 2026. The honor will be presented in November at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte as part of Whelen’s recognition of emergency responders who show exceptional valor and community service.

Why it matters: - The award spotlights a first responder whose actions helped save three children and whose example may encourage water safety awareness and mental health support for emergency personnel. - Whelen Engineering uses the Everyday Champion program to honor emergency service workers who improve public safety through extraordinary acts and long-term service.

What happened: - Whelen Engineering named Jason Horne, a firefighter and paramedic with the Midlothian Fire Department in Texas, the 2026 Whelen Everyday Champion. - Horne was honored for a rescue on July 4, 2026, while he was spending the holiday with his family on a North Texas lake. - Horne heard people on a pontoon boat calling for help after the boat overturned. - Three children were trapped beneath the boat. - Horne entered the water and searched for the children. - Horne helped rescue all three children. - Two of the children were not breathing when they reached the surface. - Horne performed rescue breathing and chest compressions. - All three children survived.

The details: - Horne has spent 25 years in emergency services. - Horne said, “I did what anybody would have done. It’s the right thing to do.” - Horne said the rescue reflected a lesson he has taught his four children: “We help those who can’t help themselves.” - Horne now helps train and mentor the next generation of emergency responders. - In the months after the rescue, Horne remained in contact with the children and their families. - One of the boys, Junior, recovered and started kindergarten. - Junior runs to Horne for a hug and calls him his best friend. - Horne’s 12-year-old daughter, Emilie, called 911 during the rescue. - Horne hopes the story raises awareness about water safety and the need for mental health support for first responders. - Horne sought counseling after recognizing the emotional impact of the experience. - Horne now speaks openly about emergency personnel seeking support when needed. - Horne said, “I think the heroes need more than the average person.”

Between the lines: - The recognition goes beyond one rescue and frames Horne as a model for service, mentorship, and resilience. - Whelen is also using the honor to highlight two broader issues that often sit outside headline rescue stories: water safety and the mental health needs of first responders. - Horne’s willingness to discuss counseling adds weight to that message and may resonate with other emergency workers who struggle in silence.

What’s next: - Horne will be honored in November 2026 at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, North Carolina. - He will receive an award of distinction in the Whelen Hall of Champions. - The exhibit recognizes people who demonstrate heroism, bravery, honor, and exceptional community service. - More information is available at the Whelen Everyday Champion program.