Instincts and Training Meet a Life-or-Death Moment

“Sir, can you hear me? If you can hear my voice, squeeze my hand. We’ve called for help—everything is going to be okay,” recalled Tech. Sgt. Keosha Middleton.

On June 11, 2025, Middleton received the American Red Cross Lifesaving Award for saving a man’s life while stationed in Japan. This award honors individuals who perform a lifesaving act using skills learned through Red Cross health and safety training. While working at a community fitness center in 2024, Middleton saw an elderly man collapse in the hallway. She quickly realized he had stopped breathing and had no pulse.

“My teammate looked at me and asked, ‘What do we do?’ The first thing I said was, ‘CPR!’ My instincts and training just kicked in,” she said. “We called for help and kept going until they arrived.”

Within her first month at the center, Middleton had completed Red Cross first aid, CPR, and AED training. Those skills allowed her to keep the man alive until paramedics arrived. He remained unresponsive at first, but medical personnel later revived him—and credited her swift action for saving his life.

“My family and I owe Sergeant Middleton and Sergeant Leahy a huge thanks,” said Julia Martin, the man’s daughter. “My father suffered sudden cardiac arrest, and Sergeant Middleton immediately started CPR. I appreciate that they were not bystanders.”

Middleton has built a career on service, supporting community events, creating spaces for families, and finding ways to boost morale. She hopes her story will inspire others to stay alert, act decisively, and be ready to help.

“There’s always something you can do to make a difference,” Middleton said. “Training gives you the confidence to step in—and that can change everything.”