Storey deputies receive honors

VIRGINIA CITY - A Storey County Sheriff's deputy received the department's second highest honor, the Medal of Valor, on Monday for pulling a truck driver from a burning rig.

Sheriff Jim Miller and Assistant Sheriff Gerald Antinoro presented the award to Deputy Anthony Francone, 35, during a ceremony in the courthouse on B Street. Several other officers were recognized for their time in service and furthering their educations.

On July 30, 2007, Francone and Deputy John Michael Mendoza came upon an accident involving two semi trucks on Mustang Road.

Francone said one of the trucks was on fire and bystanders were trying to get the driver out.

As Mendoza called for fire crews, Francone said he ran to the rig, jumped on the passenger side running board of the engulfed cab and, with the help of bystanders, pulled the driver free.

Though the man died of his injuries a few weeks later, Antinoro said Monday's recognition was warranted.

"This award is a little bit slow in coming. It is very well deserved and it's one of the highest honors. Without any concern for his own well-being ... he pulled somebody from the vehicle, saving their life," said Antinoro.

Francone's father, Mike Francone, former White Pine County undersheriff, made a surprise appearance to pin the award on his son's uniform.

Also in attendance were Francone's wife Kristyn, daughter Kaitlyn, 3, and son Jonathan, 8. Son Travis, 11, wasn't able to attend.

The Medal of Honor is the department's highest honor, usually presented posthumously, said Antinoro.

Also honored during Monday's ceremony were:

• Deputies Tony Dosen, Jeff Bowers and Dan Gaunt for their service in the military.

• Deputies Dan Gaunt, Joe Mercer, Ralph Gilbert and Shawn Mahan for their academic achievements in obtaining associate or bachelor degrees.

• Deputies John-Michael Mendoza and Bart Lambert for community service efforts.

• Deputies Tony Dosen and Tim Guthrie were given their supervisor certificates from the Nevada Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training.