Staying With His Wagon John Braden sacrificed himself for others.

John Braden was an old-time stagecoach driver. In 1896, at age 74, he was in Albuquerque, driving a wagon filled with fireworks for the annual Territorial Fair parade.

Some cowboys set off roman candles and skyrockets that hit Braden’s load. That set off an explosion and fire. Braden stayed with his wagon, keeping it from going off into other vehicles and the crowd—despite the fact that his clothing was on fire. Officials said his
actions saved many lives. Braden died the next day. A fountain in his honor (photo) was erected two years later.