Off-duty Coast Guardsman saves life

Photo By Petty Officer 3rd Class Manda Emery | Petty Officer 2nd Class Andy Rodriguez, a boatswain's mate at Station Houston, stands with fellow first responders during a recognition ceremony at the Webster Fire Department, Dec. 11, 2014. Rodriguez was recognized for assisting in saving a co-worker's life while off-duty at his part-time job at Academy Sports. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Manda M. Emery)  

HOUSTON, TX, UNITED STATES

12.11.2014

Story by Petty Officer 3rd Class Dustin Williams  

U.S. Coast Guard District 8 PADET Houston

HOUSTON - A Coast Guardsman was recognized Thursday in Webster, Texas, for saving a woman’s life while working at his part-time job.

On Oct. 18, 2014, Petty Officer 2nd Class Andy Rodriguez, a boatswain’s mate at Station Houston, performed CPR on a coworker who had stopped breathing at Academy Sports. He performed CPR on the woman until EMS arrived shortly after.

“A person had asked me if I knew CPR; I said yes,” said Rodriguez. “They said, ‘This lady needs your help, she’s dying.’ I checked her vitals, [there were] no vitals, and began CPR. Before you know it, the paramedics took over.”

Rodriguez was recognized along with a manager from Academy Sports and the paramedics that responded to the 911 call.

The woman is recovering but was able to attend the ceremony. She received many hugs and well wishes from her saviors throughout the event.

“It’s a great feeling knowing she’s alive now. She’s doing great,” said Rodriguez.

• Date Taken: 12.11.2014
• Date Posted: 12.11.2014 16:28
• Story ID: 150106
• Location: HOUSTON, TX, US