Natchitoches Animal Control Officer and U.S. Army veteran Ronald N. Dellinger Jr. was awarded the Lifesaving Ribbon by Natchitoches Police Chief Collins for his actions while responding to a vehicle accident on Feb. 5, 2026.
The accident occurred at the bridge near Mariners Restaurant.
According to the Natchitoches Animal Control Shelter, Dellinger crawled through debris, glass and fuel inside the wrecked vehicle to recover an essential item, disregarding his own safety in the process.
The shelter recognized Dellinger for his continued dedication to serving the community following his military career.