Lifesavers Recognized and Awarded

During this past Monday’s meeting of the city council, I had the honor of recognizing and awarding Sergeant Jeremy Gates and Officer John Valdez for saving the life of an elderly female while she was a spectator at a little league event.

Anytime an officer saves the life of another, he or she receives formal recognition and is awarded the Law Enforcement/Public Safety Lifesaving Medal. The details surrounding this event are as follows:

This Recognition is hereby given to Sergeant Jeremy Gates and Officer John Valdez for the way they performed their duties on March 29, 2021, when they responded to a female not breathing call at the Aransas Pass Little League Field, East Johnson Street, Aransas Pass, Texas.

Upon arrival, both encountered the elderly female unresponsive and not breathing. You both jumped into action immediately administering CPR and delivering shocks via the AED. Your deliberate and precise response meant emergency medical care was provided in a timely manner, within moments of receiving the emergency call.

EMS Director Carrie Deleon said, โ€œThe assistance of the officers on scene and early defibrillation with high-quality CPR absolutely made a difference in this situation.โ€ Additionally, Captain David Muniz reports the female is alive and talking with family members as a result of your efforts. Without your presence of mind and commanding actions, this lady might not have lived to see another day.

Today, the Aransas Pass Police Department takes great pride in awarding you with this Lifesaving award. Your actions on March 29th have been directly attributed to saving a life. Your performance during this event epitomizes our core values of honor, commitment, wisdom, and compassion, and the true meaning of public service. Thank you!

Awarded this, the 19th day of April 2021.

Excellent job, officers!

Sergeant Jeremy Gates (left), Chief Eric Blanchard (center), & Officer John Valdez (right)