Auburn Police officers honored with lifesaving medals after reviving 84-year-old man

Officers Nelson and Bernabe of the Auburn Police Department were awarded the Medal of Life-Saving for their heroic actions on August 4, when they revived an 84-year-old man who had collapsed. Responding to a call about a man in distress, they found him unconscious, not breathing, and without a pulse. Officer Nelson quickly retrieved an AED while Officer Bernabe initiated chest compressions, working collaboratively to apply the AED pads, which indicated no shock was needed. Their timely CPR maintained blood flow, enabling the man’s heart to stabilize by the time medical crews arrived. Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority Captain Erickson noted their early intervention was crucial in “priming the heart.

” Police Chief Mark Caillier highlighted the officers' calmness and training, stating that their actions were instrumental in saving the man’s life. Both officers were formally recognized for their bravery on August 15, underscoring the importance of rapid emergency response in life-threatening situations. This incident illustrates the vital role that police officers can play in emergency medical situations beyond their traditional law enforcement duties.