CARTERSVILLE, Ga. — A Kennesaw State University police officer is being praised for his heroic actions after risking his life to save his fiancée from a devastating house fire.
Lt. Robert Milam woke in the middle of the night to a cracking sound, initially dismissing it, but upon further investigation, he discovered flames rapidly consuming the Cartersville home.
“In one of the corners, there (were) flames going up from the floor to the ceiling,” Milam said.
The fire, which he believes originated in the recreation room, quickly surrounded Milam, blocking the exit and trapping his fiancée, Misty, behind the flames. Without hesitation, he ran through the blaze to rescue her.
“I really didn’t think about anything other than what I had to do. And that was to get her out of there,” Milam explained.
Although Milam successfully saved Misty, he said he sustained severe burns covering about 20% of his body. At one point, he was completely covered in wrap because of burns on his head, back, and limbs. He has undergone multiple surgeries and faces a lengthy recovery, which he said his family, his fiancee's family, and his fellow officers have been helping him through.
"Makes me feel like I'm more liked than what I thought I was," Milam said.
The fire destroyed the house, including all the Christmas gifts. And Milam's pets remain missing. Despite the losses, Millam remains focused on the positives.
“I’m not sure I’ve ever felt this much support and love,” Milam said.
Milam said his doctors expect him to make a full recovery, and he hopes to return to work with KSU Police after his final surgery next week.
An online fundraiser has been launched to assist Milam and his fiancée as they rebuild their lives. Support here.