KIMBALL, Neb. -- -- Veering to the left, then swerving to the right on Sep. 23, 2022, outside of Kimball, Nebraska, a semi-truck loses control and turns over onto Interstate 80 in front of a team of Airmen driving down the highway.
Watching the scene unfold in front of them, Tech. Sgt. Catalon Boyd, Senior Airman Erik Horvath, Airman 1st Class Aric DeSantiago, & Airman 1st Class Joel Flores then moved to assist the driver of the now overturned vehicle that sat across both lanes of traffic.
Horvath quickly stopped the payload transporter, while DeSantiago placed traffic triangles to warn other drivers of both the overturned truck and the stopped PT. Boyd and Flores found the driver mostly unharmed and the passenger covered with numerous abrasions, lacerations, and a possible concussion; both assisted in the administering of self-aid buddy care.
After emergency services and first responders made it on scene, Boyd and his team stood down, and gave over the care of both victims to the responders. The team proceeded to site to complete maintenance once the truck had been cleared from the road.
“Our Airmen utilized their training and skills to respond to the situation quickly, professionally and all while keeping their calm,” said Lt. Col. Claus Fasting, 90th Maintenance Group deputy commander, “I couldn’t be more proud of our Airmen and their abilities.”
For their efforts in helping the crash victims, 90th Missile Wing commander Col. Catherine Barrington and Command Chief Master Sgt. Nicholas Taylor recognized the team with a visit and presenting those available with command coins.