Boy Receives Award For Holding 6 year old who Fell From Chairlift in USA
7th October 2026
Major Metzger was only 10 when he held a six-year-old boy above the ground at Wintergreen Resort in Virginia. NEW
The incident happened in January 2025 and more than a year later, his actions have earned him one of North America’s highest civilian honors for heroism.
Major has been presented with the Carnegie Medal by Virginia Governor, Abigail Spanberger.
The award recognises civilians in the United States and Canada who knowingly place themselves in extraordinary danger while attempting to save another person’s life
Major and his friend, six-year-old Bryce Rader, were riding a four-person chairlift with their sisters when Bryce slipped from the lift.
The lift was approximately 16 feet above the ground.
For four minutes, Major held on to Bryce until the ski patrol arrived with a safety mat for him to land on.
Bryce later said, “He saved my life.”
Neither child was seriously injured in the incident.
The Carnegie Hero Fund Commission said Major made a conscious decision to expose himself to danger in order to protect his friend.
His position made the rescue especially difficult as he was seated on a moving chairlift, wearing skis and winter equipment, while attempting to hold another child who was hanging below him.
The Carnegie Medal was established by industrialist Andrew Carnegie in 1904 after a mining disaster near Pittsburgh in which two rescuers died.
The fund was created to recognize civilians who risk their own lives to save others.
“Major Metzger’s bravery represents the very best of Virginia — and he demonstrated it at the young age of only 10 years old,” said Governor Abigail Spanberger.
“Our entire Commonwealth thanks you for fearlessly risking your life to save your friend.
“I know how incredibly proud your parents and family are of you for your actions last January, and on behalf of the Commonwealth of Virginia and the Carnegie Hero Fund Commission, I am honored to present you with the Carnegie Medal.”
The award to Major was made last month.
See more here: Carnegie Hero Fund Commission
The incident was first reported on News 3.
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