Four U.S. soldiers from Alabama are being labeled heroes after they provided lifesaving CPR for nearly 30 minutes to a man suffering a heart attack at a KFC in western Poland, according to Army officials.
2nd Lt. Indiana Rhodes from Lanett, Sgt. 1st Class Alicia Haggins from Notasulga, Staff Sgt. Jacob Roberts from Falkville and Sgt. Justin Fagan from Driver Trinity were eating at a rest area restaurant outside of Skwierzyna, Poland, when they witnessed the civilian man collapse outside on August 14.
The soldiers, all from the 214th Military Police Company, Alabama Army National Guard, acted swiftly to control the scene, assess the man’s condition, and keep him alive until Polish emergency medical services arrived.
Haggins used a phone to translate with the man’s family to determine his medical condition, and Fagan checked the man’s vitals and started performing CPR.
“His pulse was really faint,” Fagan said. “He didn’t respond to a sternum rub so I started chest compressions.” Fagan, Rhodes and Roberts continued chest compressions until EMS arrived and evacuated the man to a nearby hospital.
“The biggest concern is making sure he stays alive,” he added. “I never thought about recognition. The most important thing is doing the humane thing to another human.”
The soldiers expressed their concern for the man's health the following day.
“I just hope it all turns out good for him and his family,” Haggins stated. “I am glad that we were there and had the training and expertise to react.”
Rhodes agreed, adding, “I hope he’s doing ok. It would be cool to know that he’s doing ok and able to be with his family.”
Army officials stated, "The quick response and teamwork of these Soldiers exemplify the values of the U.S. Army and the strong partnership between U.S. forces and the Polish community. Their actions not only saved a life but also reinforced the bond of trust and cooperation between the two nations."
U.S. Army Garrison Poland wrote on Facebook that the four soldiers' response was a "testament to the professionalism and heart of our Soldiers."
"Their quick thinking, teamwork, and lifesaving response are a testament to the professionalism and heart of our Soldiers," the U.S. Army Garrison Poland said.
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