SAN ANTONIO — A North Carolina National Guard Soldier came to the aid of a driver who suffered a medical emergency while behind the wheel in San Antonio, Texas, Aug. 2, 2026.
At approximately 3 p.m., Staff Sgt. Glenda Richardson, assigned to 130th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, assigned to Joint Task Force – Southern Border (JTF-SB) in support of Operation Ardent Vanguard, was on an evening walk when she witnessed a vehicle strike a roadside sign before crossing into oncoming traffic. Other motorists were able to safely swerve around the vehicle, avoiding a collision.
The ensuing investigation revealed that the driver had lost consciousness. The driver regained consciousness moments later and safely brought the vehicle to a stop before striking interstate barriers.
Richardson immediately responded to the stopped vehicle and assessed the driver's condition, checking for injuries. She placed a call to emergency services, reporting live her findings. While waiting for emergency services to arrive, Richardson flagged down a police officer who had the fire department block the intersection until the vehicle could be safely moved.
"I did what anyone would do in this situation," Richardson said. "I saw someone in need, and I wanted to help."
Richardson was prepared to respond to the emergency. She recently earned her CPR certification through the 130th MEB, North Carolina National Guard, and has completed multiple first responder and medical training courses during her military service.
Her actions reflect the National Guard's tradition of citizen-soldiers serving their communities both in and out of uniform.
Richardson is from Spring Hope, North Carolina. She is an automated logistical sergeant, specializing in supply chain and maintenance management infrastructure. This deployment to JTF-SB, assigned to U.S. Northern Command, is her third active-duty mobilization.
U.S. Northern Command is working side-by-side with the Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection within narrowly defined authorities to provide unique military capabilities to protect the territorial integrity of the U.S. southern border.