HAGATNA, GUAM JUNE 23, 2026 — The American Red Cross Pacific Islands Region Guam Chapter recently honored two emergency responders with lifesaving awards. Capt. Jude Cruz has been awarded the Certificate of Merit and Capt. Jacob Olivas received the Lifesaving Instructor Award.
While attending a Christmas function on Dec. 27, 2025, Capt. Jude Cruz demonstrated immense courage and skill when a woman collapsed. Capt. Cruz immediately rushed over and assessed the woman. After determining no pulse was present, he directed bystanders to activate the EMS system and retrieve an AED. He then immediately initiated CPR and attached the AED once it arrived. Capt. Cruz provided continuous care until he determined her heart had begun beating again. Once EMS arrived on the scene, they took over care and transported the woman to Guam Regional Medical City hospital. Following extensive care, she made a full recovery.
Capt. Jacob Olivas, Andersen Air Force Base Fire and Emergency Services and Lifesaving Instructor Award Recipient
“The Red Cross training I’ve received through Capt. Olivas and my experience as a firefighter prepared me to respond right away. In that moment, it was about staying focused and doing what needed to be done. I’m grateful I was there when it mattered, and that everything came together to help save her life,” said Capt. Jude Cruz.
Capt. Cruz’s quick response and lifesaving skills were taught to him by Capt. Jacob Olivas in September of 2022. Capt. Olivas is an American Red Cross CPR & AED instructor and Cruz’s peer at Andersen Air Force Base. Immediate CPR can triple the chance of survival, and survival chances decrease by 10% for every minute that immediate CPR and use of an AED is delayed. Olivas’s training and Cruz’s actions greatly contributed to the woman’s successful recovery. The Red Cross is proud to recognize and celebrate their achievements
“On behalf of our Guam Chapter and our island community, we’re honored to recognize these local heroes. What Jude did took courage and quick action, and in that moment, he didn’t hesitate, he stepped in and saved a life. This recognition reflects not only his actions, but also the training and mentorship behind them, including Capt. Olivas’ role in preparing others to respond when it matters most. Together, they represent the very best of how we care for one another on Guam,” said Ken Quintanilla, Executive Director, American Red Cross Guam Chapter.
American Red Cross Training Services teaches lifesaving skills to an average of more than 5 million people each year. Sign up for a Red Cross training today to be prepared for an emergency situation like Capt. Cruz and Olivas. Courses are available in online, blended, and in-person formats at redcross.org/takeaclass.
If you or someone you know used Red Cross training to help save or sustain a life, visit LifesavingAwards.org to nominate, recognize, or be inspired.
Capt. Jude Cruz, Andersen Air Force Base Fire and Emergency Services and Lifesaving Award Certificate of Merit Recipient
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org/hawaii or follow us on social media.
Support all the urgent humanitarian needs of the American Red Cross.
Find a drive and schedule a blood donation appointment today.
Your time and talent can make a real difference in people’s lives. Discover the role that's right for you and join us today!
