Teacher honored as a hero for saving children's lives

MOORESVILLE, N.C. -- Pat Judd is a physical education teacher at A.K. Suter Elementary School in Pensacola, Fla. He also serves as a crossing guard in the mornings to help assist children to school. On April 3, his role as a crossing guard took on a whole new meaning as he pushed children out of the way of a moving vehicle. His act of heroism saved the children's lives but put him in harm's way.

America's Incredible Pizza Co. and CJM Racing are honoring Incredible Heroes throughout the 2009 Nationwide Series season. If you know of an Incredible Hero, let us know.

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Judd was standing at an intersection, in front of the school, when a van ran the stop sign while several children were at the crosswalk. The driver ignored Judd's instructions to slow down and Judd quickly jumped into action. He pushed the children of out harm's way and became the target for the moving vehicle. The van grazed Judd and ran over his foot; breaking it in the process. The injury sent Judd to the hospital where he was hospitalized for several days. He has now made a full recovery and returned to the school a few weeks later.

"Mr. Judd will always be considered a hero to us," remarked Chris Whitworth, whose grandchildren attend A.K. Suter. "He is a favorite teacher to the students that attend the school and now a hero."

For his heroism, Pat Judd has been recognized by his peers and the America's Incredible Pizza Company as this week's "Incredible Hero."

The Incredible Heroes are extended an invite to attend the Nationwide Series race as guests of CJM Racing and the America's Incredible Pizza Company. Each hero receives a plaque in recognition of their heroism and they spend a VIP day at the race track.

The Incredible Heroes campaign will run throughout the 2009 Nationwide Series season. If you know of an Incredible Hero and would like to nominate him or her please email: heroes@incrediblepizza.com for consideration or click here.