Connecticut National Guardsmen awarded for saving a life a Fort Hood
U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to the 143rd Regional Support Group, Connecticut National Guard, have earned the Army Commendation Medal (ARCOM) for their heroic actions after saving the life of a Soldier on April 22, 2026, in Fort Hood, Texas.
Maj. Steven M. Alba, Maj. Christopher J. Tantillo and Capt. Jason S. Bzdick have all played a huge role in saving the Soldier’s life.
The Soldier, part of the 120th Mobilization Support Brigade at Fort Hood, Texas, was experiencing a medical emergency that could’ve potentially been fatal.
“I saw Capt. Bzdick reacting,” said Alba. “And the only thing that was going through my mind is just step up and help the Soldier immediately.”
Tantillo, quickly assisted and made the call to the paramedics.
“Once we saw the condition of the Soldier,” said Tantillo, “We immediately handled the situation and started to monitor his status. I immediately called emergency services, gave them our location to be there as soon as possible.”
While waiting for paramedics to arrive, Bzdick performed CPR to keep the Soldier conscious and stable.
“Having gone through training really made the difference,” said Bzdick. “Things like ensuring his head was protected as I removed him from the vehicle and making sure he was clear of the vehicle in case it moved.”
The 143rd RSG recently trained about 14 Soldiers in combat lifesaver (CLS) techniques providing intermediate life-saving trauma care.
“The knowledge and confidence training provides can very well make the difference between life and death,” said Bzdick. “The reality of how things could have gone if my team wasn’t there. We each had a responsibility, we communicated, and we were able to successfully give aid. It’s a testament to our organization and to their character.”
