On the morning of July 10, 2007, Lake Mary, Fla., Firefighter Ryan Cooper planned to relax on his day off. Moments later he became an eyewitness to an accident that would make national headlines. While in his driveway, a twin-engine aircraft tried to make an emergency landing, but instead crashed into his neighbor’s homes, exploding into flames.

Ryan grabbed his protective bunker gear from his trunk before racing into the aviation-fueled inferno. Even though he had no air pack, his only concern was saving his neighbors’ lives. Once in the house he instantly inhaled smoke and jet fuel as he pulled his 10 year old neighbor to safety. He then re-entered into the dangerous, zero-visibility conditions, to pull out the father. Both victims had third-degree burns but were saved by Ryan’s heroic efforts.

Although overcome by smoke and fumes, Ryan moved to the second house where conditions were so dangerous he was unable to continue to search. It was a difficult decision. Although he was having trouble breathing, and he may not have made it, he still wanted to press on and try and save everyone.

That day, the plane crash sadly claimed five lives, and the fire was so large it could be seen from I-4 and throughout greater Orlando.

As recognition for Kevin Reck’s bravery, he received Orlando’s prestigious Meritorious Service Award.

For his courage under fire, the City of Lake Mary, Fla. firefighter was honored by several different agencies for his heroism. One of the most humbling honors, he said, was the City of Sanford naming August 18 "Ryan Cooper Day."

Today, Ryan continues to be a firefighter and paramedic for the Lake Mary Fire Department.
Firehouse Subs^® is proud to call Ryan our hero.