Tina Mulka receives rare MSP award

by Peter Jakey– Managing Editor

Tina Mulka, 17, of Posen was bestowed with the Michigan State Police’s rare “Distinguished Citizen Award” in Rogers City last Friday. Mulka and her best friend, Aleaha Reed, who she saved from a vehicle that flipped upside down along Polaski Road, were picked up at Posen High School and given a ride to the Rogers City detachment in a MSP vehicle.

“In my 21 years in the department, I’ve never personally been involved in a case, or have been given the opportunity to present the MSP’s Distinguished Citizen Award,” said 1st Lt. Ken Holmes, post commander of Alpena and Rogers City. “So, it speaks to the rarity of this given out. It is very special and requires authorization from the district commander in Lansing. We are in awe that someone her age exhibited such maturity and care for someone else.”

THE ACCIDENT happened as the two girls were heading to a volleyball game September 18, 2007. Reed lost control of the vehicle and it spun 180 degrees and ran off the west shoulder of the road, striking several trees before overturning and catching fire. Mulka was able to get out of her own seat belt, while hanging upside down, and then free Reed from her seat belt. Trees prevented exit from the driver’s side window so Mulka was able to pull Reed by her feet from the smoking vehicle, out the passenger door window. Soon after, the vehicle became fully engulfed in flames.

Ironically, Reed remembers not liking Tina prior to attending the school. “When I was first visiting this school I did not like her. I didn’t have any interest in her or anything,” said Reed. ?As soon as I moved here we became best friends.”

THE AWARD states: “Your willingness to get involved and render personal assistance to this department an

d its members in the performance of their official duties is truly commendable. The men and women of the Michigan State Police are grateful for your support as well as your actions. With sincere gratitude and appreciation we salute you for a job well done.”

Mulka also received a letter from Capt. Tim C. Rod, Seventh District Headquarters. He thanked Mulka for her bravery. “Your recognition and willingness to respond during this life threatening situation not only helped save the life of your friend, but also helped aid law enforcement offices and medical personnel arriving on the accident scene.”

Mulka also received a plaque from Posen Area Fire and Rescue. She is the daughter of Mitch and Angie Mulka of Posen.

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