A young rancher-in-training from Montana recently showcased his cowboy skills in an unexpected context. 14-year-old Jory Thomas saved a man’s life using techniques he had learned on his family ranch.
While camping with his family near Greycliff, Montana on July 5, Thomas sprang into action after hearing cries for help from the Yellowstone River. “We heard, ‘Help, help,'” Thomas recounted to KTVQ.
A rafting accident had sent four individuals into the river. Three managed to reach the shore, but one man continued to float downstream while holding onto a cooler. The urgent need for a rescue was clear.
“The current was pretty fast,” Thomas explained. “I didn’t want to see anyone go in front of me.”
Reacting quickly, Thomas emptied his pockets and crossed the riverbank. He then used a 12-foot lasso, which he had brought with him on the trip, a first for him when camping, to reach the man in the water.
“My first instinct was to rope him and drag him out before he floated too far,” Thomas remarked. He succeeded in this on his first attempt, pulling the man to safety and holding him until help arrived.
Thomas credited his faith for guiding him during the rescue. He explained, “God was putting me in the place of all this. God was telling me to get him, and I believed I could.”
His roping skills, honed while working with cattle, proved vital in this life-saving moment. “I thought I could only help with cattle,” Thomas said, reflecting on his unexpected heroism. “I’m glad I was there to help.”
In recognition of his bravery, the Sweet Grass County Sheriff’s Office awarded Thomas a Certificate of Achievement. Sheriff Alan Ronneberg expressed appreciation for the teen’s actions in a public post.
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