Jacob Stoddard was injured in a chainsaw accident that left him with a 12-inch scar across his upper thigh. Runnels got the call while he was at a handgun qualifying session with other members of the police department. He was the first to arrive at the scene, and controlled Stoddards bleeding and hemoraging.

Craig Stoddard, Jacob's father, was trying to control the bleeding artery when Runnels arrived. "Charlie took over the situation and kept everything under control," recalls Janet Stoddard. "He kept everyone calm and had a sense of humor when Jacob asked how many stitches he would need."

A few days after the incident, Alexander received a letter from Eugene "Geno" Murray Jr., vice-president of C.A. Dean Hospital emergency services, recognizing Runnels for his quick response and life-saving actions.

"We are expected to investigate crimes and make arrests. So when one of our officers goes above and beyond the call of duty and save a life, that's great," said Alexander.

Stoddard, after surgery and many hours of physical therapy, is up and walking and attended the town Christmas gathering on Dec. 14 at DKB Catering in Greenville. The Stoddards honored Runnels along with Alexander and the Town of Greenville.

"I was pleased and surprised to receive the award," said Runnels. "In 30 years, I have never been recognized for basically doing my job."

Runnells served 26 years with the Racine (Wisc.) Sheriff's Department, retiring as a lieutenant in 1997. He had worked his way up through the ranks as a patrol supervisor, detective and sergeant before being appointed commander of the SWAT team. Runnels also served as a patrol supervisor and watch commander.

The former Marine and Vietnam combat veterans also retired as a command sergeant major with the U.S. Army Reserves.

He and his wife, Donna, live in Abbot and have four grown children and one granddaughter.
"This content originally appeared as a copyrighted article in the Moosehead Messenger and is used here with permission."