Jesse Hartnett, the Philadelphia Police Officer ambushed while he sat in his patrol car earlier this year received a special valor honor named for fallen Sgt. Robert Wilson III.
The Philadelphia Police Department awarded Hartnett with its Sgt. Robert Wilson III Valor Award, “for extraordinary acts of courage, without regard for their safety, while engaged with someone who is armed,” at Wednesday’s Valor, Bravery and Heroism awards.
A gunman opened fire on Hartnett as he drove his patrol car along S 60th Street on Jan. 7. Despite being hit three times, Hartnett was able to give chase and return fire, striking suspect Edward Archer. Hartnett then applied a tourniquet to his own badly injured arm, said Philadelphia Police.
"Officer Hartnett’s courageous action under extremely dangerous conditions is in keeping with the traditions maintained by the Philadelphia Police Department," said police.
Hartnett suffered extensive nerve damage and has limited use of his left arm -- undergoing physical therapy -- after undergoing eight surgeries.
Archer faces multiple charges in connection with the shooting. He allegedly told police after his arrest that he was acting in the name of Islam, though Archer's defense attorney has said he may have mental problems. [[378202981, C]]
