An 8th grader from Wisconsin is being celebrated for his heroic feat after taking control of his school bus when the driver passed out. His brave actions have gotten him praise from the mayor’s office, city council, fire and rescue teams, and law enforcement. The young hero also shared that the experience has boosted his courage.
It all began on a bright day in April when Acie Holland III got on his school bus, following the usual procedure. He joked with the bus driver before she put on her headset and started the bus. However, Holland informed CNN that he sensed something was off when the driver looked off-balance, leaning her head down.
Realizing Danger
According to Acie, the driver moved past the street where they usually turn. That was when he realized all wasn’t well. He then moved to the front row and saw that the driver was not conscious and the bus was drifting into impending traffic.
Taking Action
In what he later called a fight-or-flight moment, Acie pushed the driver aside, grabbed the steering wheel, and carefully moved the bus to a safer part of the road. Once the bus was successfully stopped, he dialed 911 and instructed other pupils to contact their parents.
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According to CNN, the driver experienced a medical situation and required immediate medical attention. Initially, the 8th grader’s father, Acie Holland II, doubted his son’s story.
However, when the truth became evident, the father admitted he wasn’t shocked by his son’s courageous act.
Family Pride
Acie’s father told CNN that his son has always been quick to respond in any situation. He said he has always recognized this quality in him, not only with the school bus but in other situations as well. The father added that he’s always ready to assist people in need. “I’m incredibly proud of his actions,” he said.
Acie’s father owns an auto repair shop. He mentions that spending time there makes him familiarize himself with how vehicles operate, giving him the courage to take control of the bus steering. In his school, the authorities stated that Acie’s act of compassion and ability to lead is evident in his daily activities. Still, the incident in April showcased these traits on an entirely new level.
Community Recognition
Acie’s parents are happy and proud of their son’s courage and swift actions. The young lad has become a hero in the community and school.
The Glendale law enforcement unit and the Milwaukee Fire unit commended Acie for his courage and bravery and presented him with an award. In addition, the mayor and city council acknowledged his actions with an official declaration.
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Following the incident, the school penned a letter to the households within the Glendale River Hills School community, commending the young hero for his courageous act. The courage to stand up for his fellow students when the need arose saved the lives of the pupils, the bus driver, and the bus from a crash.
This is another commendable level of his leadership capabilities. The authorities of the Glen Hills school community are super proud of Acie and are thankful that all the Glen Hills pupils are safe. They wish their bus driver a swift and complete recovery.
Celebrating The Hero
The next day at school, the pupils chanted “AC-Hero” as they celebrated the young lad who stepped in and calmed the situation. According to Acie, sometimes, you just do what you have to do, and in this case, I’m just being me by doing what I had to do.
His parents are proud of him, the school authorities appreciate his effort, and the community acknowledges his feat. He is a hero to the pupils and school.
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