By BOB SHRALUKA
WZBD.com
Three Decatur Police Department officers credited with saving a life were recently honored at a department awards ceremony.
In addition, several other officers were recognized, as were two veteran members of the department, Amy Gage and Betzi Butler.
Sgt. Nathan Hunter and officers Zachary Hess and Jagg Nunez were presented life-saving pins by Chief Kevin Gerber.
During the middle of the night last December, the three officers responded to a call for medical assistance for a Decatur resident. They were the initial first-responders to arrive and discovered the patient unresponsive and not breathing on his/her own.
The officers began providing CPR and used a department issued AED (Automated External Defibrillator ) until fire and medical units arrived and continued to assist giving aid to the patient.
The patient was taken to an area hospital for treatment, and, ironically, on the same day the officers received their awards the patient was discharged from the hospital and sent home after making a full recovery.
“A person does not become a police officer for the accolades, but it is important we recognize these three officers for their actions,” Chief Gerber said. “There is no greater gift than life itself, and you three helped give a family their loved one back. Great job, Sgt. Hunter, Officer Nunez, and Officer Hess.”
Meanwhile, Chief Clerk Amy Gage was recognized for completing 25 years of service and received a certificate and shirt pin. Amy is currently in her 27th year of service with the department.
Administrative Assistant Betzi Butler also received a certificate and shirt pin for completing 25 years of service with the department.
Also recognized were the following:
Officer Trent Busse, for 10 years of service, receiving a certificate and 2-star uniform pin.
Officer Luke Rumschlag, 5 years of service, certificate and 1-star uniform pin.
Officer Daniel McGill, 5 years of service, certificate and 1-star uniform pin.
Sgt. Nathan Hunter, 5 years of service, certificate and 1-star uniform pin.
Reserve Captain John Summers, 5 years of service, certificate and 1-star uniform pin.
Reserve Officer Andy Smith, 5 years of service, certificate and 1-star uniform pin.