By: Rachel Beaird, Communications Volunteer

A frantic father, a choking child and two police officers that had moments to act – this is the situation that Officers Kyle DeJesus and Matthew Gibbins found themselves in on April 24, 2025.

The two Tampa Police Department officers were flagged down on patrol by a father carrying his toddler who was choking and unable to breathe. The two men immediately sprang into action, performing back blows and attempting to clear the child’s airway. As the boy went limp, the men stayed calm, adjusted his position, and continued lifesaving measures. After a few moments they were able to dislodge a small tomato from his throat, calming his panicked parent and saving the boy’s life.

Their ability to stay calm and composed while taking swift actions to save a life earned them a National Red Cross Lifesaving Award – the Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action.

On August 22, 2025, Mike Brown, executive director of the Tampa Bay Chapter of the American Red Cross, presented these two men with the awards as well as high praise at Tampa Police headquarters.

“In my experience with the American Red Cross, I've learned that heroes -- brave men and women willing to step forward and help a stranger during their greatest time of need -- are all around us. But I've also learned that these individuals are not common, because to act quickly and decisively during a crisis takes a level of courage reserved for only a chosen few,” he said at the ceremony.

The Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action recognizes individuals who do not have Red Cross training, but nonetheless, perform a lifesaving act to help sustain or save a life. These brave individuals truly embody the mission and values of the Red Cross.

Get Trained

Red Cross training gives people the knowledge, skills and confidence to act in an emergency to save a life. Three types of course formats are offered: instructor-led, online only and blended learning (online training with instructor-led skills check). To learn more or find a class, visit redcross.org/take-a-class or call 1-800 RED CROSS.

Nominate a Hero

Nominate an individual or a team whenever lifesaving skills are used to help save or sustain the life of another individual. Visit lifesavingawards.org.