Petty Officer Third Class Matthew Feldman Rescuing a woman from a burning house last May has earned a commendation for a St. Ignace Coast Guard sailor. Petty Officer Third Class Matthew Feldman, boatswain's mate, and postal worker Preston Allers, both of St. Ignace, came across a fire and teamed up to save Patsy LaPine from a dangerous situation at her St. Ignace home.

For his bravery, PO3 Feldman was presented the Coast Guard Commendation Medal Thursday, December 10, by Sector Sault Ste. Marie Commander Mark Huebschman.

The fire started May 26, when a lit cigarette ignited trash on Patricia Horn's deck. Mrs. LaPine was staying at the house with her niece that day and was unaware of the fire engulfing the deck and rapidly spreading to Mrs. Horn's garage, where several tanks of propane were stored.

PO3 Feldman was on his way home when he noticed the fire on Chambers Street. At first, he thought it was a large bonfire, but as he drew closer, he could see the blaze on the deck and called the St. Ignace Fire Department. Checking inside the home, he could see Mrs. LaPine and banged on the doors and windows to get her attention. She cautiously opened the door and Mr. Feldman explained the predicament. Postal carrier Preston Allers also noticed the fire and stopped to help escort Mrs. LaPine from the home.

Preston Allers "She probably thought I was crazy, screaming at her window," PO3 Feldman said said. "I'm just glad I drove by when I did."

With Mrs. LaPine safely outside, PO3 Feldman emptied a trash can, filled it with water from inside the house, and began dousing the flames, while Mr. Allers battled the fire using a garden hose.

"The whole side of the garage looked like Christmas lights, the way it was flickering," Mr. Allers noted.

The St. Ignace Fire Department arrived shortly afterward and doused the remaining fire. The deck and railing were badly burned and the vinyl siding on the garage and a portion of the house had melted.

Following the rescue Mr. Allers returned to his route, mentioning the incident to only one of his coworkers.

Mrs. Horn, who was at work when her aunt was saved from the fire, said she is thankful for the quick action of the two men and sent personal notes to them.

Bryce Tracy, captain of the St. Ignace Fire Department, also wrote a letter commending PO3 Feldman for his quick action.

"...We congratulate him in helping in making our community safer and well liked by many, knowing that there are still Good Samaritans out there to help our citizens and area in times of need," Mr. Tracy wrote.