Ellsworth provides Airmen life-saving training

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Hrair H. Palyan
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Airmen from the 28th Medical Group held a CPR and automated external defibrillation class in Sept. 11, as part of an effort to teach Airmen skills that may help save lives.

The class, conducted in the 28th MDG Education and Training conference room, included step-by-step instructions on how to operate a defibrillator, treat individuals who are choking and perform CPR.

Staff Sgt. Joshua Hagemann, 28th Medical Operations Squadron NCO in charge of ambulance services, and course instructor, said the primary goal was to teach students a variety of techniques he has acquired during his more than 10 years as a paramedic.

"Someone can go into shock or choke at any given time," Hagemann said. "That's why it's important for every Airman on base to have the knowledge and skills that are necessary to provide life-saving support until emergency services arrive."

Hagemann explained that the Air Force has always taken CPR and AED training seriously - ensuring there is at least one AED located in every facility on base. In addition, many agencies across the base require Airmen to stay current on their annual first aid and CPR training.

"We not only teach Airmen how to provide medical assistance to adults, but to children and infants as well," Hagemann said. "The skills acquired in this course can help someone throughout their entire life regardless of where they are or what their job is."

Second Lt. Aaron Jones, 28th Force Support Squadron officer in charge of readiness, attended the class and said he enjoyed the fresh perspective the instructor provided.

"This class is important to me because I lead an active lifestyle," said Jones. "I oversee my unit's physical fitness program, coach football and I'm a personal trainer off duty. In the past, I've had to perform CPR and I know how important having these skills can be."

Jones added that life-saving courses help Airmen develop essential muscle memory that can prove useful in an emergency situation.

"It's not in me to walk away from someone in need of help," Jones said. "That's why I'll attend this class every year. I encourage everyone on base to sign up."

For more information or to sign up for the next CPR and AED class, call Master Sgt. Tina McFadden, 28th MDOS NCO in charge of education and training, at (605) 385-3503.