October 11, 2006
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2006-45)
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
R. Steve Huffman
Public Information Officer
(251) 208-5806/Fax: (251) 208-5813
E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org
FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR 2006
On the morning of February 13, 2006, firefighters were dispatched to a vehicle wreck on I-65 southbound between Airport Blvd and Government Blvd. The information passed on to the responding units was that the wreck involved a tractor-trailer and single vehicle. The potential for grievous injury was astounding due to high speeds associated with interstate driving. The first unit arrived on the scene, set up safety measures and hose lines were laid out to facilitate extrication. Initial size up revealed a heavily damaged vehicle that flipped several times and was lying on its side. Oil and gas was about the vehicle and a small infant, still in its car seat, was extricated from the wreckage and being attended by one of medics and transported to a local medical facility.
Firemedic John Bob Black, 25, a 4 year veteran, disregarding his own personal safety, entered the top of the vehicle and began initial stabilizing measures to the patient. Black stayed with the patient the entire extrication and treatment process. Black, not only provided the required medical treatment and assessment, but also the emotional support to the patient as other firefighters literally cut the vehicle from around them. Lifeflight transported the patient once extricated from the vehicle. For his actions John B. Black was presented Firefighter of the Month in March and now he is presented the Firefighter of the Year.
The Insurance Professionals of Mobile, who sponsors the yearly event, recognized Firemedic Black at a ceremony on Tuesday evening, October 10, 2006.
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