Corey Comperatore died a hero. He must always be remembered as such.

The former Buffalo Township volunteer fire chief and resident died Saturday, July 13, after he dove over top of his family, protecting them as shots were fired at the campaign rally for former President Donald Trump at the Butler Farm Show grounds.

In that moment, he was thinking nothing of his own safety, only acting to protect his loved ones. His actions shielded his wife and daughter from the gunfire.

Corey’s heartbreaking but brave display of love for his family happened shortly after the former president and current presidential candidate took the stage at the Connoquenessing Township venue.

A gunman, later identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, fired several shots from the American Glass Research (AGR) International building, which overlooks the farm show grounds, fatally wounding Comperatore and striking three others, including Trump.

The former president was struck in the ear, while the other two victims, David Dutch and James Copenhaver were critically injured. Those victims are in stable condition, according to the most recent report by the Associated Press.

As the community mourns Corey’s death, the reaction from those who knew him has indicated his actions Saturday were no exception to how he lived his life.

In interviews, he was described as “a stand-up guy” who was always willing to help and always serving his family, his church, his community and his country.

Corey was a graduate of Freeport High School and a 10-year veteran of the U.S. Army Reserve. He served as the Buffalo Volunteer Fire Department chief in the early 2000s.

And on Saturday, Corey — in one final heroic act — put his family first in a way that we all pray we’re never in the position to need to do.

A candlelight vigil will be held in memory of the late Corey Comperatore at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Lernerville Speedway in Buffalo Township.

A public visitation is set for Thursday, July 18, at 2 p.m. at Laube Hall on Community Park Road in Freeport.

A GoFundMe has raised more than $1 million for the family, plus the Buffalo Township Fire Department is able to take donations for the family. Donations through the fire department should note in the memo line that it’s a donation for his family.

Simply put, Corey was a hero. His loss will be felt here in Butler County for years to come.

— TL