By Frederic Klein

As the sun began to dip below the horizon in southern Italy, casting a golden glow over the restaurant terrace, 14 friends and family members gathered for dinner. Among the group was Dominick Vulpis, a beloved youth sports coach from Brooklyn and Long Island, and one of his former athletes, Michael McManamon.

Then, in an instant, the joyful atmosphere shifted — Michael began to choke.

The table fell silent as panic set in. But Dominick didn’t hesitate. Decades of Red Cross training surged to the forefront. He quickly assessed the situation — Michael couldn’t breathe. Dominick sprang into action, delivering firm back blows. When those didn’t work, he administered abdominal thrusts. After a tense few seconds, the obstruction dislodged. Michael gasped for air; relief swept over the table.

Dominick saved his life.

For over 50 years, Dominick Vulpis has been a cornerstone of youth sports in Brooklyn and Long Island. Thousands of kids have passed through his teams, learning not just how to play, but how to lead, support one another, and stay prepared for life’s unexpected moments.

Part of that preparation included CPR and First Aid training — something Dominick didn’t just practice but taught.

“I’ve been at this for 41 years, working with the Red Cross and training coaches,” he said. “It started at a summer camp run by the Franciscan brothers. They needed certified counselors, and I stepped in. Now that I’m retired, teaching these courses brings even greater fulfillment.”

He never imagined those skills would be called upon in a quiet Italian restaurant, thousands of miles from home.

In recognition of his heroic actions, Dominick was awarded the Certificate of Merit — the highest honor given by the American Red Cross to individuals who save lives using skills learned through Red Cross training.

And in an unexpected twist, the award was presented by someone who knew him well.

“When I was asked to present this lifesaving award to Dom Vulpis, I thought, ‘I know that name,’” said Jim Flannery, Board Chair for the American Red Cross on Long Island. “When he walked in with his wife, Kathleen, I realized — he coached my sister in basketball years ago.”

Dominick’s story is more than a tale of quick thinking and heroism. It’s a powerful reminder of the ripple effect of mentorship, preparation and community. The lessons he taught on the court and in classrooms didn’t just shape young athletes — they saved a life.

Choking is a common emergency, and food is the most frequent cause of choking for both children and adults. Emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere. To learn more about how to take a class to gain the skills and confidence to act in an emergency and save lives, visit www.redcross.org/class.