HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – A Child Development Center provider received the American Red Cross Lifesaver Award Dec. 1 for performing a lifesaving act this past summer.
Jennifer Morton received the award from Kyle McWilliam-Lopez, executive director of the Northeastern Chapter of the American Red Cross in Massachusetts.
“The Red Cross Lifesaver Award is a testament to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional skill and courage in performing life-saving acts, utilizing the knowledge acquired through Red Cross health and safety training,” said Colleen Busch, 66th Force Support Squadron assistant CDC director.
Morton was working alongside Stephanie Wogan in their pretoddler classroom when a 15-month-old child began to choke.
“Acting swiftly, Wogan initiated the emergency calling protocol, ensuring rapid assistance,” said Busch. “Simultaneously, Morton executed precise back blows, ultimately dislodging the item causing the choking incident.”
McWilliam-Lopez lauded the CDC providers for their response.
“They both embody the spirit of the Red Cross,” he said. “They helped someone who was suffering in the face of an emergency, whose life was threatened, and they truly deserve to be recognized as lifesaving heroes.”
According to Busch, in addition to Morton receiving the Red Cross Lifesaver Award, Wogan will be presented with a certificate of recognition for her role in the life-saving event.
At the Northeastern American Red Cross Chapter, caregivers, including Morton and Wogan, undergo comprehensive CPR and first aid training biannually. This training equips them to handle emergencies effectively.
“These two employees embody the core values of the Air Force, and I am extremely proud of their dedicated service to Hanscom Air Force Base families,” wrote Col. Taona Enriquez, installation commander, who acknowledged the employees’ efforts in a letter to the Red Cross.
Maj. Erica Peat, 66 FSS commander, also commended the teamwork and action of the two employees.
“Their ability to make a difference in a critical moment underscores the importance of ongoing training and preparedness,” she said. “The ceremony stands as a tribute to Morton and Wogan's unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of those they serve, exemplifying the core values of the American Red Cross.”
To learn more about the CDC, including employment opportunities at Hanscom Air Force Base, visit https://hanscomfss.com/child-development-center/.