4 minute read
From the Field to the Flames
By Stacey Walters
Bryce Carden ’17 has always been drawn to the call of duty, but his recent act of bravery made national news. As a firefighter in Louisville, Ky., he risked his life to save a woman in a perilous situation and his heroism captured the hearts of many. For Carden, though, it was simply another day of fulfilling his deep commitment to serving others.
Carden has dedicated his life to firefighting, finding a unique thrill in the flames and the adrenaline of emergency response. But beyond the rush, it is the chance to make a real difference that fuels his passion. His journey began in 2013 at the University of Pikeville where he attended as a student-athlete, playing baseball. Carden loved how the small, close-knit campus provided an education and a sense of belonging and purpose.
“UPIKE shaped who I am today. The faculty there were incredible. They didn’t just teach. They mentored us, pushed us to think critically and encouraged us to follow our passions,” said Carden. “During those four years of playing baseball, I made countless friends and built meaningful relationships that I still have today.” a semi-truck dangled dangerously over the railing with a woman trapped inside. Assessing the situation, Carden acted quickly, using specialized equipment to reach the woman and secure her to safety.
Carden graduated with a degree in criminal justice and entered the fire academy in 2018. His time at UPIKE provided a solid foundation for the rigorous training and challenges he would face as a firefighter. Every day brings new tests of courage and ingenuity. From battling fierce blazes to responding to medical emergencies, Carden’s role is demanding and unpredictable. Yet, he finds solace in knowing he is making a meaningful impact.
“Firefighting is a lot like playing sports. You’re a team and a family. You count on the person beside you to do their job,” said Carden. “When everyone does their job, it runs like a well-oiled machine. We train for our job just like athletes, waiting for that moment to put it to use.”
His training and teamwork came into sharp focus during a recent heroic rescue. Carden and his team were called to a harrowing scene on the Clark Memorial Bridge where a semi-truck dangled dangerously over the railing with a woman trapped inside. Assessing the situation, Carden acted quickly, using specialized equipment to reach the woman and secure her to safety.
Despite the life-or-death circumstances, he remained calm, offering the woman words of prayer and encouragement as he carefully executed the rescue.
“That day was definitely one I will never forget. Just like when I was getting ready to start a game, I focused on the task. I knew all my preparation would allow me to get the job done,” said Carden. “Having confidence in my team on top of the bridge gave me peace of mind. I never had a doubt.”
Carden’s bravery did not go unnoticed. He and his team were honored on The Kelly Clarkson Show in New York City where they shared the heroic story with the world. They have received accolades for their courage and now speak at local schools and events about fire safety and public service.
At the Louisville Fire Department, Carden is known for his dedication. His days are filled with alarms, sirens and high-stakes rescues, but his calm resolve never wavers.
“We are here to serve the people. I’ve worked as a Louisville firefighter for six years in a busy part of downtown,” said Carden. “You see the best and the worst of society, but it’s a very rewarding job.”
For Carden, firefighting is more than a career—it’s a calling. It’s a testament to his resilience, a reflection of his dedication and a continuation of the journey he started back in the hills of Appalachia.
