First responders often face chaotic situations in the line of duty. They focus on using their training to assess the best course of action.
For one Airman, his training was needed before he got to work.
Driving In
On June 2, Tech. Sgt. Erik Bornemeier was driving down the road on his way to his post at the 151st Medical Group, Detachment 1, as part of their COVID 19 response unit.
He came upon a horrific vehicle vs. motorcycle accident in the middle of the road. It had been a head-on collision, leaving the motorcyclist stranded in the middle of the roadway.
Bornemeier pulled over and jumped into action. Grabbing his medical kit from the trunk of his vehicle, he quickly analyzed the situation. To reach the motorcyclist, he had to get across the still active lanes of traffic.
"The first thing I did was take a deep breath. As a medic, I am trained to triage and sort by priority, and he was the highest priority," said Bornemeier.
Tending to the Victim
He could see that the victim needed help immediately. He began to administer first aid to the injuries, as the victim had suffered a lot of trauma.
Bornemeier knew there was only so much he could do for the man due to the extent of his injuries. He focused on providing a sense of calm and comfort amidst the scene's chaos while they waited for first responders to arrive.
"The honest truth is that none of us know that we'll do the right thing until presented with that moment," said Maj. Gen. Michael J. Turley, adjutant general. "I can safely say that in this event, Sgt. Bornemeier did the right thing, at the right time, and for the right reasons."
Honored for His Heroism
On March 15th, Bornemeier received the Utah Cross, the second-highest award that can be bestowed on a Utah National Guard member.
Turley said, "You make us proud to be a member of an organization that would have a person such as you. I'm proud to wear the cloth of the nation with you."
Unfortunately, the motorcyclist did not survive his injuries. However, Bornemeier was able to convey his last words to his family.
Bornemeier stepped in where he was needed the most, employed his training, and did what he could to make the man comfortable. As a medic, he used his medical skills, but he employed his caring heart as a hero.
Kudos to the sergeant for being willing to step up.
Could not agree with you more. He followed sound training and used it. My hat off to the young man.
Any losers out their want to comment on the lack of necessity of FIRSY RESPONDERS/POLICEMEN???
Much of dissing authorities comes from either no family values or making a decision to hate. It's never too late to turn around. God is there to forgive us and lead us 'out of the muddy sewer ditch'. I know! I have to forgive nearly daily five creeps, only one still alive. Every day the terrible memories still can overwhelm my soul... forgiving changes ME!
Sandy: Anyone, and I do mean anyone who says we don't need LEO, (law enforcement officers) first responders have either a three word, or so definition it all boils down to commycrat, godless democrat. with that have a good night and I DO AGREE WITH YOU 1,000 %.
God's blessing on this young man! There are unknown numbers of creations all around our country who are living because of pp like this hero and they deserve respect, not slander! I said creations because all kinds of God's critters have been rescued too! I am so sorry the gentleman did not survive his injuries.. hopefully he was able to know he was not alone. Don't we all want to feel that when our time comes? Thank you for being with this gentleman and thank you for sharing your caring heart!
The lowest rungs on the ladder to hell is reserved for those,who,in a crisis situation choose to do nothing.This man has a ticket to heaven.