Nebraska's Unlikely Hero: From Roping Tournament Rescue to Heroes Game Honor

On a sweltering August day, Edgar Estrada, a resident of Bertrand, Nebraska, was preparing for a roping competition at the Merrick County Fairgrounds in Central City. Amidst the excitement of the tournament, he heard a faint cry. Initially dismissing it as the sound of goats, something prompted him to investigate further. Already mounted on his horse, FJ, Estrada followed the cries towards a nearby parking lot. There, he made a horrifying discovery: a baby trapped inside a car with the windows barely cracked open. The baby appeared to be severely distressed, with Estrada describing the infant as "melting" from the heat.

The Rescue

Without hesitation, Estrada sprang into action. Using a pocketknife, he managed to lower the car window enough to unlock the door and rescue the baby. He quickly moved the child to a cooler location and sought help from first responders. The quick thinking and bravery of Estrada undoubtedly saved the baby's life. The child, now in a foster home, is reportedly doing well.

Estrada's Humility

Despite his heroic actions, Estrada remains remarkably humble. "I'm not no hero," he insisted in an interview with KETV. He attributes his actions to common sense and an instinct to act. His words are a testament to his character: "I didn't mind my own business that day. I usually don't mind my own business. Just listen to your gut and trust your instincts." This simple yet profound advice encapsulates the essence of his heroism.

The Heroes Game and Beyond

Estrada's selfless act didn't go unnoticed. He was nominated and selected as Nebraska's 2024 Citizen Hero, an honor that will be bestowed upon him at the annual Nebraska-Iowa Heroes Game. The game, a highly anticipated event marking the culmination of the regular season for both teams, is a tradition that recognizes outstanding community members from both states. This year, the game will take place at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on November 29th. Estrada will be recognized on the field during halftime and his name will be inscribed on the Heroes Game trophy. While he'll be cheering on the Huskers, his true allegiance lies with Ohio State—a testament to a past experience where his life was saved after a serious accident when he was only 9 years old.

Honoring Heroes: A Look at the Tradition

The Heroes Game serves as a testament to the enduring rivalry between the University of Iowa and the University of Nebraska while celebrating individuals who selflessly make a positive impact on their communities. The game honors community heroes from both states. The title sponsor, Pioneer, a leading developer of plant genetics, underscores the commitment to recognizing contributions that strengthen and enrich society. This year's game carries even greater significance due to the inclusion of Dan Marburger, the late Perry High School principal who tragically lost his life while protecting his students from a school shooter. His heroic actions and commitment to protecting his students embody the spirit of the Heroes Game. He’s recognized as Iowa's Citizen Hero for 2024.

A Lasting Legacy of Courage

Edgar Estrada’s story is a powerful reminder that heroism isn't confined to grand gestures; it resides in everyday acts of courage and compassion. His instinctive response to save a child from a perilous situation is a testament to his character and a source of inspiration for us all. His story underscores the importance of trusting our instincts and acting upon them, especially when it comes to helping those in need. The recognition he receives at the Heroes Game serves as a symbol of gratitude for his selfless act and a reminder that even amidst the intense rivalry of college football, celebrating courage and community remain paramount. His actions show that true heroism can be found in the most unexpected places, and he'll be forever remembered for his bravery. The ongoing tributes and the lasting impact of both Estrada's and Marburger's actions will continue to inspire many.