September 18, 2003

East Lansing - The Michigan State Police Board of Awards is pleased to announce that Trooper Douglas H. Gough of the West Branch Post has been awarded the Michigan State Police Bravery Award. He is credited with risking his life to protect the lives of others.

On June 28, 2002, Gough joined other State Police and local law enforcement officers at the scene of a residential shooting. The shooter had wounded two subjects and set fire to a barn. Armed with a rifle, the shooter took cover near the burning barn.

One wounded subject was able to get away from the shooter and seek medical treatment by emergency personnel. The other wounded subject was still in the vicinity of the shooter, lying on the lawn next to the burning barn.

Gough and the other officers decided to attempt to retrieve the second victim. Using their patrol vehicles for cover, they approached the burning barn. With the other officers providing cover, Gough exited the vehicle and grabbed the victim, pulling him to safety. Gough and the other officers then assisted the Michigan State Police Emergency Support Team by establishing and maintaining a safe perimeter until the shooter surrendered.

The Michigan State Police Board of Awards recognizes that Gough’s quick and selfless actions helped to end the situation without further harm.

Gough joined the department in 1999. He was a member of the 118^th Recruit School and was assigned to the Mt. Pleasant Post after graduation. In 2001, Gough transferred to the West Branch Post.