SALT LAKE CITY– The Utah National Guard announced on Monday that governor Gary Herbert will award Sgt. Chasen Brown the Utah Medal of Valor.

The Utah Medal of Valor is the highest state award a Utah National Guard military member can receive.

In 2017, Brown was in the crowd when a gunman opened fire on those attending the Harvest music festival. Immediately and without hesitation, Brown started to help the wounded while under constant gunfire.

According to the governor’s office, Brown’s actions saved half a dozen lives during one of America’s deadliest mass shootings. 

The state awards the Medal of Valor to members of the military in Utah who demonstrate immense courage in dangerous situations. It’s awarded to a member of the Utah National Guard who has risked their own life and personal safety, “above and beyond the call of duty, while in the service of the state of Utah or the United States of America and its citizens.” 

“Chasen’s heroic actions on that tragic day remind me of what I am most proud of regarding our Guard members—that they serve selflessly and bravely in the defense of our nation and its citizens,” said Col. Steve Fairbourn, commander of the 65th Field Artillery Brigade. “This dedication isn’t limited to when they are deployed, but rather is just a part of their character.” 

Brown is a gunner for Charlie Battery, 2nd Battalion, 222nd Field Artillery. The governor will present the award to Brown in a ceremony at the Utah State Capitol on Sept. 1, 2020, at 3:30 p.m.

Due to COVID-19, only 15 people may attend the award ceremony in person. You can watch the live stream here.