ATLANTA -- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Office of Field Operations officers at Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta international Airport (ATL), went beyond the call of duty recently providing life-saving care to an airport employee who was choking.
White and A. Williams recognized for
life-saving actions
Yesterday, CBP recognized officers M. White, A. Williams and M. Watkins for their actions on April 22, when they responded to a nearby commotion while on duty at ATL to find a female on the floor, unable to breathe.
A bystander was attempting to provide care but with no success. CBP officer White immediately took control of the incident performing several abdominal thrusts, while officers Williams and Watkins assisted by securing the scene and connecting with Atlanta Fire and Rescue Department who responded.
After numerous abdominal thrusts by CBP officer White, the food obstruction dislodged, allowing her to take breaths on her own. Atlanta Fire and Rescue evaluated the ATL employee who was able to return to work and thanked the CBP officers for their quick response and proper use of the Heimlich procedure.
“These officers’ actions illustrates the selflessness and dedication that CBP demonstrates providing safety and security in any situation they face.” said Carey Davis, CBP Port Director for the Area Port of Atlanta. “Many are grateful for their actions at our busy airport resulting in the saving of a life, a memorable thing to do.”
Watkins and M. White returning to
work at ATL
On occasion, in the course of their daily duties officers are the first on scene to many emergencies. CBP members on a regular basis receive valuable training to ensure they are fully prepared to respond to a multitude of high stress scenarios.
CBP exists to safeguard America's borders thereby protecting the public from dangerous people and materials while enhancing the Nation's global economic competitiveness by enabling legitimate trade and travel.