In a remarkable display of courage and preparedness, Airman 1st Class Sokthearrith Dong, a member of the New Hampshire National Guard, sprang into action to save the life of a fellow gym-goer at a local fitness center in Pease Air National Guard Base, N.H., on the evening of April 15.
The harrowing incident unfolded as Dong entered the gym and witnessed a man collapse from an elliptical machine, sustaining a severe head injury upon impact with the floor. Without hesitation, Dong, an aircrew flight equipment specialist with the 157th Operations Group, rushed to assist upon hearing calls for help from others present.
Recalling the critical moments, Dong described how he swiftly assessed the situation and detected the absence of a pulse in the fallen individual. Drawing upon his training and experience as a patrol supervisor with the Old Orchard Beach Police Department, Dong wasted no time in deploying an automated external defibrillator (AED) and initiating life-saving measures.
“I’ve responded to plenty of incidents before, but this was the first time I’ve ever had to administer a shock,” Dong shared, reflecting on the intensity of the situation.
Guided by the prompts of the AED, Dong administered chest compressions and delivered a shock, ultimately playing a pivotal role in sustaining the victim’s vital signs until the arrival of emergency medical responders from the Saco Fire Department.
The swift and decisive actions of Dong, coupled with the coordinated efforts of the emergency response team, culminated in the successful resuscitation and subsequent hospitalization of the individual, who was treated for cardiac arrest and ultimately survived.
David Hamel, deputy chief of the Saco Fire Department, commended Dong for his exemplary response, emphasizing the profound impact of his intervention in preserving the life of a complete stranger.
Dong’s exceptional preparedness stems from his extensive training in both military and law enforcement contexts, where he has received instruction in first aid, tactical combat casualty care, and emergency response protocols.
Reflecting on the fortuitous sequence of events, Dong expressed gratitude for his timely presence at the gym, underscoring the significance of being prepared to act decisively in moments of crisis.
Tech. Sgt. Joel Miller, Dong’s supervisor within the 157th Operations Group, praised his colleague’s dedication and quick thinking, highlighting Dong’s embodiment of the Citizen-Airman ethos.
For Dong, his swift response exemplifies the values instilled by the National Guard, emphasizing the importance of integrity and leadership, even in moments when one’s actions may go unnoticed.
As Dong continues his service with the New Hampshire Air National Guard, his heroic actions serve as a testament to the unwavering commitment of Guard members to safeguarding the well-being of their communities, both on and off duty.