BELMONT — The Irish American Police Officers Association (IAPOA) is pleased to announce that a Watertown Police Department officer was awarded the IAPOA Life Saving Award for his actions to help a patient suffering from a possible heart attack.
IAPOA President Bob Sweetland and Vice President/Trustee David Collins traveled to the Watertown Police Department to present the award to Officer Raul Mendez.
Officer Mendez was recognized for his response on Dec. 2, 2019, when Watertown Police were called to a report of a man suffering from a possible heart attack.
Upon arriving at the scene, Officer Mendez found the man on the ground, not breathing, and without a pulse. Officer Mendez immediately began chest compressions and used his Department-issued automatic external defibrillator (AED) to administer a shock.
The Watertown Fire Department then arrived on scene and took over care of the patient, who was transported to a local hospital. It was later learned that the man was expected to make a full recovery.
“The quick response, poise under pressure, and compassion of Officer Mendez assuredly helped save a patient whose life was hanging in the balance,” President Sweetland said. “No matter the issue, our law enforcement officers rush to help those in need, and Officer Mendez’s performance of his duty is a great demonstration of the compassion, skill, and dedication that Watertown Police officers provide to their community.”
The IAPOA usually holds an annual awards dinner for all honorees, but has been unable to do so for the past two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
This year the IAPOA is recognizing honorees by traveling to meet them and present the awards individually. The IAPOA is hopeful they will be able to host an in-person dinner and awards ceremony again next year.
Individuals and organizations can be nominated for awards in six categories:
- Valor
- Life-saving
- Investigations
- Meritorious Service
- Community Service
- Humanitarian Acts
The IAPOA also recognizes the sacrifice made in line-of-duty deaths with a Medal of Honor presented posthumously to the families of fallen officers.
The IAPOA is a designated 501(c)(3) charitable organization. For further information or to become a member, please visit www.irishamericanpolice.org.
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