Nicholas County, WV (WOAY) – Following the tragic loss of Steven Lipscomb at the Rolling Thunder Mine, we are learning more about the man who ensured the safety of his fellow miners.
It was during operations that the mine had a sudden inflow of water. Lipscomb was last seen attempting to keep his crew safe, but could not reach safety himself. All other miners in the area were able to evacuate.
Lipscomb had always been a leader, enlisting as a rifleman in February 2002 following the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
He was in the first battle of Fallujah in Iraq and was wounded several days later. He was later medically discharged in 2005 and returned to his hometown of Elkview, West Virginia.
In 2006, he began his mining career, working with his brother Joseph Lipscomb.
Steven earned many awards, including the Global War on Terrorism Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and more.
He leaves behind his wife, Heather, and two daughters.
