During a recent government meeting, the Germantown Police Department recognized the heroic actions of its officers and dispatchers in a life-saving incident involving a five-day-old infant. Chief Fisher and Captain Ben Sharp presented a detailed account of the event, which took place on May 27, 2024.
The situation unfolded when officers Tremmel and Bernadis were dispatched to a home on Lenox Drive after a report of a child not breathing. Dispatcher Jailer Martinelli provided critical life-saving instructions over the phone while the officers rushed to the scene, arriving within two minutes. Upon arrival, they found the infant in distress, with formula obstructing the airway.
Officer Bridal immediately took action, performing back blows to dislodge the formula, and was later assisted by Officer Bernadis. Their swift and trained response successfully cleared the infant's airway, allowing the child to begin crying and breathing normally. Emergency medical services arrived shortly after to provide further care, and a follow-up confirmed the child was in good health.
In recognition of their exemplary actions, the police department's award committee determined that Officers Bridal and Bernadis would receive the Life Saving Award, which honors personnel who perform extraordinary acts to save lives. Dispatcher Martinelli was also commended for her role in the incident.
The child's father expressed profound gratitude, stating that without the officers' intervention, his child might not have survived. The meeting concluded with a moment of appreciation for the officers and dispatchers involved, highlighting the importance of their training and quick thinking in critical situations.