Episode 12

full
Published on:

21st May 2025

Left for Dead: The Park Ranger Shot 9 Times Who Fired Back

In this powerful episode of Heroes Behind the Badge, we tell the extraordinary survival story of Utah State Park Ranger Brody Young. While patrolling alone on a November night in 2010, Ranger Young approached a vehicle at a remote trailhead outside Moab, Utah. What began as a routine check ended with Young being ambushed and shot 9 times at point-blank range.

Despite catastrophic injuries to his heart, lung, spine, and internal organs, Young refused to give up. Using his tactical training, he returned fire with his non-dominant hand, performed a one-handed reload, and eventually reached his radio to call for help.

Young shares the critical decisions and actions that saved his life, including:

  • The moment he chose to fight rather than give up
  • How specific training allowed him to shoot through his patrol vehicle
  • The technique he used to control his breathing while bleeding out
  • His remarkable journey from death's door to returning to duty

Now serving as a Lieutenant, Young discusses his book "Nine Miracles" and offers vital lessons for other officers about survival mindset, tactical preparation, and the importance of physical and mental wellness in law enforcement.

Join hosts Dennis Collins, Craig Floyd, and Bill Erfurth as they explore this incredible story of resilience, forgiveness, and the unbreakable spirit of those who wear the badge.

All Episodes Previous Episode

Listen for free

Show artwork for Heroes Behind the Badge

About the Podcast

Heroes Behind the Badge
We tell REAL stories about REAL cops.  And we expose the fake news about police and give you the REAL truth.
From the front lines to the final call, Heroes Behind the Badge brings you the untold stories of America's law enforcement community. Led by Craig Floyd, who spent 34 years working alongside police officers across the nation, alongside veteran facilitator Dennis Collins and law enforcement expert Bill Erfurth, this podcast cuts through misconceptions to reveal the true nature of modern policing.

Our dynamic trio brings unique perspectives to each episode: Craig shares deep insights from his decades of experience and relationships within law enforcement, Dennis guides conversations with meticulous research and natural flow, and Bill adds engaging commentary that makes complex law enforcement topics accessible to all listeners.

Each episode features in-depth conversations with law enforcement professionals, sharing their firsthand experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Drawing from extensive research and real-world experience, we explore the realities faced by the over 800,000 officers who serve and protect our communities every day.

From dramatic accounts of crisis response to quiet moments of everyday heroism, our show illuminates the human stories behind the badge. We dive deep into the statistics, policies, and practices that shape modern law enforcement, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of what it truly means to serve in law enforcement today.

Whether you're a law enforcement professional, a concerned citizen, or someone seeking to understand the complexities of modern policing, Heroes Behind the Badge provides the context, insights, and authentic perspectives you won't find anywhere else. Join us weekly as we honor those who dedicate their lives to keeping our communities safe, one story at a time.

Presented by Citizens Behind the Badge, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for law enforcement professionals across the United States. Join over 126,000 Americans who have already signed our Declaration of Support for law enforcement at behindbadge.org.