Heroic lineman honored for life-saving rescue 57 years later

November 12, 2024 | Jacksonville, Duval County, Florida


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Heroic lineman honored for life-saving rescue 57 years later
During a recent city council meeting, Rabbi Schutz delivered an invocation emphasizing wisdom and moral clarity for council members, setting a reflective tone for the proceedings. Following the invocation, the council approved the minutes from the previous meeting and moved on to communications from the mayor's office, which were filed without discussion.

A significant highlight of the meeting was the presentation of a resolution commending JD Thompson for his heroic actions 57 years ago when he rescued fellow lineman Randall Champion from a life-threatening situation. On July 17, 1967, Champion was electrocuted while working on utility poles, and Thompson, without hesitation, rushed to his aid, performing mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and ultimately saving his life. This act of bravery was famously captured in a Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph known as \"The Kiss of Life.\"

Councilman Gay, who introduced the resolution, noted the lasting impact of Thompson's actions, which led to the implementation of new safety training protocols for linemen across the country. The council recognized Thompson not only for his heroism but also for his contributions to improving safety standards in the industry.

In a heartfelt tribute, Chris Richardson, a fellow lineman, recounted the events of that day and the profound changes that followed in lineman training. The council also announced that the entrance to the JEA power generating station would be renamed JD Thompson Street in honor of his legacy.

Thompson's family members were present to witness the recognition, and his wife, Vicky, expressed gratitude for the acknowledgment of her husband's character and service. The meeting concluded with a sense of community pride in honoring a local hero whose actions have had a lasting impact on public safety and the lives of many.

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