ATLANTA — Three U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers are being praised for going beyond the call of duty when they saved an Atlanta airport employee who was choking.
According to the CBP, officers White, Williams and Watkins were patrolling Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport April 22 when they responded to a nearby commotion.
When they got there, they found a bystander trying to help a woman who was on the floor, unable to breathe. While the bystander was unable to clear the woman's airway, CBP said officer White immediately performed the Heimlich Maneuver. Williams and Watkins, meanwhile, helped in securing the scene and calling for first responders from the Atlanta Fire and Rescue Department.
After a while, White was able to clear the woman's airway of the piece of food that had been lodged. She was checked out by first responders and eventually returned to work.
“These officers’ actions illustrates the selflessness and dedication that CBP demonstrates providing safety and security in any situation they face,” said CBP Port Director for the Area Port of Atlanta Carey Davis. “Many are grateful for their actions at our busy airport resulting in the saving of a life, a memorable thing to do.”
The three officers were recognized for their life-saving actions Wednesday.
