Airman puts self-aid, buddy care into effect

Published March 2, 2010
By Senior Airman Steele C. G. Britton
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. -- A sergeant saved a fellow Airman's life Feb. 11 at the Hercules Dining Facility on base after performing the Heimlich maneuver on a choking victim.

Lunchtime had come just like any other day for Tech. Sgt. Paul Feller, a 96th Aerial Port Squadron information manager, until he noticed a chair knocked to the floor and an Airman giving clear signs of choking on something lodged in his throat.

Sergeant Feller jumped up and took charge of the situation. "I performed the Heimlich maneuver just as I was trained in self-aid and buddy care classes. The self-aid and buddy care training and steps to take the Air Force provided me kicked in instantaneously as I was able to perform the procedure without having to think about it," said the Cabot resident.

After several in and upward thrusts, the Airman dislodged the food from the victim, enabling him to breathe again.

Sergeant Feller assured the victim was okay and returned to his lunch as usual.

"Everyone should take the SABC course seriously, as you never know when you need the training to help someone else."

Although Sergeant Feller is currently working as an information manager for the 41st Airlift Squadron, he is permanently assigned to the 96 APS.