JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas –
Upon hearing a cry for help coming from the men’s latrine at the Basic Military Training Physical Therapy clinic May 24, an Airman sprang into action to save the life of an unresponsive fellow wingman on the floor.
“I was going to a routine appointment and I heard a sound coming from the restroom,” said Airman Oh. H. Bang, a 737th Training Support Squadron trainee. “Instincts kicked in and I just started running toward the sound. When I entered the latrine I was in a little bit of a shock, but I just stuck to my training and tried to stay calm.”
Bang, a former Emergency Medical Technician, reached the Airman and administered basic life support while waiting for emergency medical personnel to arrive at the scene. He stabilized his fellow wingman enough to ensure a successful transport to the San Antonio Military Medical Center where the Airman received treatment.
Bang was awarded the Air Force Achievement Medal June 21 for his quick response and lifesaving actions, a rare feat for a basic military training trainee, said Col. Jason E. Corrothers, 737th Training Group commander.
“Airman Bang’s high situational awareness and quick reaction in an emergency situation saved his wingman's life,” said Corrothers. “He truly exemplified all that it means to be a wingman in our Air Force.”
While Bang said he was excited to receive the award, he imparted his feelings that many service members and emergency personnel perform similar actions as a part of their daily routines.
“There are plenty of people in uniform out there that do things like this every day,” said Bang. “I’m happy to receive the medal, but I was just doing my job as an Airman.”