The November 2004 Citizen of the Month belongs to two individuals, who came to the aid of two individuals, putting aside their own safety, to help others who were in obvious need. As Mayor of Rapid City, I am pleased to present the Citizen of the Month award for November, 2004 to Greg Harp and Jason Hope.

On the morning of September 1, 2004, a homicide took place at Taco Johns on Haines Avenue. During the attack, an individual with a knife stabbed both Brandi Standing Bear and Tammi Hamilton. Tragically, Brandi Standing Bear’s wounds proved to be fatal and Tammi suffered several lacerations. As the attack was in progress, two witnesses ran looking for someone to help.

Greg Harp and Jason Hope were just finishing their work at Wendy’s and ran to help. By the time of their arrival, the attack had ended and the suspect was attempting to leave the area. Jason approached the suspect and held him at bay with a shovel until the police arrived moments later.

Debra Ross who nominated the two men, states that “These two men risked their own lives to help others in need. We need more young men that would come to the aid of complete strangers.” Law enforcement personnel have also thanked these individuals for their willingness to put their safety aside. They believe that their actions played an important part in taking the suspect into custody and locating the murder weapon.

We offer our community’s appreciation to both individuals for their courage and willingness to aide others during their time of obvious need.