CHEYENNE, Wyo. — Ronnie Disbrow and Lonnie Porter were honored at the Cheyenne Frontier Days rodeo on Wednesday, July 24. Thousands of spectators cheered as the two men were celebrated for their bravery in rescuing an 11-year-old boy from the Popo Agie River.
In May 2024, Wyoming State Park Ranger Lonnie Porter was patrolling Sinks Canyon State Park when a visitor reported that a child had fallen into the river and was clinging to a rock in the rapids. Recognizing the urgency, Porter called for EMS and water rescue assistance but knew time was critical.
Acting swiftly, Porter threw a rope to the boy and managed to pull him to safety. State Parks employee Ronnie Disbrow assisted in the rescue effort. The boy was then rushed to medical treatment in Porter’s truck. Along the way, Wyoming Game and Fish Warden Zack Burnhart wrapped the boy in blankets to stave off hypothermia. An ambulance crew arrived shortly after and took the boy to Sage West Hospital in Lander, where he was treated for hypothermia.
“Ranger Porter’s quick actions and use of his water rescue training skills helped prevent a loss of life,” said Wyoming State Parks Chief Ranger Mark Caughlan. “A big thank you to Ranger Porter for taking the quick and decisive action necessary to make sure that this story had a happy ending.”
At Cheyenne Frontier Days, Porter expressed his gratitude for the recognition. “I’m excited to be here at Cheyenne Frontier Days and to be a part of this tradition. As a Park Ranger, I know firsthand that while the beauty of our Wyoming State Parks is unmatched, they can also be dangerous. It feels great to be recognized, but more than anything, I’m just glad Ronnie and I were there that day to help.”
This marks the fourth consecutive year that Cowboy Skill has hosted the hometown heroes. The company provided lodging, dinner, rodeo tickets, concert tickets, and seating in the Cowboy Skill sponsor boxes. Cowboy Skill and Cheyenne Frontier Days share a passion for honoring those who demonstrate extraordinary bravery, generosity and sacrifice, according to a press release by Cowboy Skill.