F.E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. -- An F.E. Warren Commissary employee recently saved the life of a fellow employee, and received a commendation from the 90th Missile Wing commander here April 12.
Col. Stephen Kravitsky, 90th MW commander, presented a commander’s coin to James Gay, 16, for his heroic actions that saved his coworker’s life.
Gay jumped into action when he noticed signs of distress in his fellow employee after lunch the day of the rescue.
The coworker sat on the floor and had pale skin and trouble breathing, Gay said. Later it was discovered he was having heart troubles.
While the distressed coworker was conscious, Gay asked him questions to determine his level of consciousness, he said.
Gay and another person attempted to get the coworker to his vehicle when he collapsed.
“911 said to use an AED, and no one else was AED certified except for myself,” Gay said.
Despite the fact there were adults present, Gay was the one to take action and hook up the AED so it would be ready when emergency medical personnel arrived.
“I wasn’t too shocked when I heard about it,” said his mother, Dawn Gay. “For a 16 year old to step in when you have all these adults around proves to me that we raised him right. We always told our kids to be the ones to jump in and help somebody out.”
James said he does not remember feeling emotional in the situation, but that his actions were reflexive and second nature. He is certified in pediatric and adult CPR, first aid and AED for a high school childhood education class.
“I just stepped into action,” he said. “I didn’t know what to think at the time.”
Ronald Jenkins, 90th MW director of staff, said proper training leads to appropriate responses in crises.
Jenkins said Gay’s assessment of his performance in the health emergency is a testament to his unselfish attitude and care for others.
Because emergency situations can arise at any time, Gay recommended everyone receive emergency training, but he said he understands that may not be feasible for some.
After the coin presentation, Kravitsky lauded James’ performance under pressure and expressed mild regret that James’ intends to pursue a career path in forensic chemistry instead of an Air Force career.
“You saved his life; you gave him more time to be with his family,” Kravitsky said. “You’re the exact type of young person we’re trying to recruit.”
Gay said he is working to become a forensic chemist so he can help save lives. One might say he is off to a good start.