Montgomery, Ala. (WDNews) – Six Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) employees were honored Tuesday, Dec. 10, during a special ceremony in Montgomery. The event celebrated their heroic efforts and lifesaving skills, which have impacted lives and showcased the agency’s commitment to public safety.
One particularly moving moment during the ceremony was the reunion of Senior Trooper Joshua Thompson with Mr. James McLain, whose life Thompson saved in September. McLain, joined by his family, expressed his gratitude, saying, “We were told that I possibly did not have a pulse for 16 minutes or more. It was the CPR that was given that kept blood moving.”
The incident occurred on Sept. 1 when McLain, driving in Milton, Fla., suffered a medical emergency and crashed. Off-duty at the time, Thompson immediately stopped to assist, administering CPR and using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) with help from a Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Deputy. McLain was airlifted to Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola, where he spent 30 days recovering.
“I don’t know how long, Mr. Thompson, you kept going, but they say you were diligent,” McLain said during the ceremony. “I know without that fast response… there’s not a chance I would have made it.”
In addition to Thompson, other troopers were recognized for equally extraordinary actions:
Senior Troopers Jacob Manning and Kenny Wade rescued two adults and two children showing signs of hypothermia after their boat capsized in Perdido Bay in Baldwin County.
Senior Trooper Chad Wynn responded to a vessel in distress near Mobile Bay, rescuing three people who had fallen overboard six miles offshore.
Senior Trooper Chad Dyer received recognition for his efforts near Wheeler Dam on Wilson Lake, where he rescued victims from a perilous situation involving failed hydroelectric equipment.
Senior Trooper Jordan Seahorn was awarded a Certificate of Commendation for his investigative skills during a traffic stop in Marion County that uncovered illegal drugs, firearms, and cash.
ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor commended the troopers, emphasizing their dedication to protecting the public. “Their actions serve as a reminder of the importance of their training and the sacrifices they make to serve the state of Alabama,” Taylor said.
The ceremony highlighted not only the courage of these troopers but also the critical role law enforcement plays in ensuring safety across Alabama.
