Pictured left to right are: Commission Chair Susan Allen, Cleveland County EMS Director Ryan Wilmoth, MedCenter Air Flight Nurse Jason Haynes RN, Sheriff Alan Norman, MedCenter Air Flight Nurse Robert Burch RN, Sgt. Bart Lee, Deputy Andrew Beal and County Commissioners Deb Hardin, Doug Bridges, Ronnie Whetstine and Johnny Hutchins.
Cleveland County Sheriff’s Deputy Andrew Beal was presented with a "Lifesaving Award" from MedCenter Air at the Nov. 19 meeting of the Cleveland County Board of Commissioners.
On Sept. 19, 2019, Deputy Beal was the first responder on the scene of a serious collision between a motorcycle and a car, in which a man suffered a traumatic amputation of one of his legs. Deputy Beal, a former firefighter, recognized the gravity of this man's injuries and knew he would die within minutes from massive blood loss without immediate lifesaving measures. Deputy Beal applied a tourniquet to the man's leg to stop the bleeding which saved his life.
MedCenter Air Flight Nurses Robert Burch RN and Jason Haynes RN presented Deputy Beal with the award.
Mr. Burch said, “I visited the patient in the hospital and he was happy to be alive and have more time with his family.”
According to Sheriff Alan Norman, “I am very proud of Deputy Beal for recognizing how critical the gentleman was and acting quickly to save his life.”
Cleveland County Commission Chair Susan Allen said, “Thank you for your service, Deputy Beal. We are fortunate to have you, and all of our first responders working for the citizens of Cleveland County. You make us all proud.”