Eureka High Students Honored for Actions During Medical Incident

Eureka High and South Technical High seniors Sam Heacox and Jacob Yallaly were honored at the Jan. 6 Eureka Board of Aldermen meeting for exemplary actions they took during a recent medical incident at South Tech.

The two students were formally recognized by the Board and Mayor Sean Flower during the meeting, with Eureka Chief of Police Michael E. Werges recommending them.

"Together, these young men represent the very best of our community," Chief Werges said in his letter of commendation. "Their actions underscore the importance of strong educational programs, athletic participation and a culture that fosters service to others. Recognizing students who rise to the occasion reinforces the importance of civic responsibility and public service within the city of Eureka."

Heacox, who is a student in the South Tech Firefighting and EMT program, took quick, decisive action when someone suffered a severe fall on the South Tech campus. He put on personal protective equipment and helped classmates and staff stabilize the person until emergency personnel arrived. Once the EMS crew got there, he also communicated important information about the incident to the medical professionals, helping ensure a professional transfer of care.

Yallaly, also a South Tech student, showed willingness to act in a moment of need, demonstrating professionalism, calm and situational awareness while helping tend to the injured person.

"The students both demonstrated outstanding professionalism, composure and initiative," Werges wrote. "Their actions exemplify the values of service, preparedness and leadership we strive to foster within our community."

(Photos courtesy of the Eureka Police Department)