Saving Clark's neck? Panic at 'Lampoon's Christmas' display

AUSTIN, Texas � A holiday display meant to re-create a scene from �National Lampoon�s Christmas Vacation� looked a little too real and caused a veteran to spring into action.

The Heerlein family placed a dummy representing Clark Griswold dangling from the gutter of their Austin home, with a ladder tipping beneath him.

A veteran passing by thought it was the real thing and wrestled the ladder up while shouting, �Can you reach it?�

KVUE-TV reported the man called police, who arrived and advised the family they were getting calls about the display.

They have since put up a sign that states �Clark G is part of our Christmas display please do not call 911.�