BOX ELDER COUNTY — Emergency responders packed Tremonton City Hall on Tuesday afternoon, to recognize four members of law enforcement for their efforts rescuing a woman during a farming accident. The two Tremonton-Garland Police officers and two Box Elder County Sheriff’s deputies received the Lifesaving Medal, along with a standing ovation from everyone in attendance.
On July 8, Officer Hansen and Officer Jackson, along with Deputy Green and Sergeant Blauer were dispatched to the accident in Fielding. A 54-year-old woman had gotten caught in an auger — something used to drill fence post holes. She suffered severe lower extremity injuries, including two broken legs.
During Tuesday’s awards ceremony, Tremonton-Garland Police Chief Dustin Cordova said the woman’s life was saved due to the coordination, teamwork, and decisiveness of the four members of law enforcement. They worked together to evaluate the scene, stabilize the victim, and coordinate the landing of a medical helicopter.
“The woman happened to be trapped at the time,” said Cordova, “and working together, they were able to accomplish the mission. I’m happy to report it resulted in a positive outcome. The woman’s life was saved. The air med guys said doctors were able to save the person’s leg, and she will hopefully bounce back from this.”
As part of Tuesday’s recognition, an AirLife helicopter landed next to city hall. The pilot and paramedic that took part in the July rescue were also on hand to join in the recognition.
Cordova said the successful rescue is a testament to the way law enforcement agencies and EMTs work together. Many of the participating first responders from neighboring fire departments were also in attendance Tuesday.
“We are one big family, especially in Box Elder County,” stated Cordova. “We have the luxury of working well with other agencies. We have AirLife and the county sheriff’s office, and we work awesome with them. We have a joint SWAT team and we work with these guys all the time. When we need them, they are there for us. And when they need us, we’re there for them.”
The Fielding woman remains in a Salt Lake area hospital.