Story Number: NNS021031-03
Release Date: 10/31/2002 8:46:00 AM
By Journalist Seaman James Kimber, Fleet Activities Sasebo, Japan Public Affairs
SASEBO, Japan (NNS) -- Hull Technician 3rd Class Michael Regan of Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 5 DET WESTPAC ALFA received a letter of commendation Oct. 23 from the Sasebo City Central Fire Department, for rescuing a Japanese fireman from a motorcycle accident last month.
After the ceremony, Regan explained how he assisted the injured fireman.
“I was taking [Hull Technician Fireman Michael Toon] to base that morning to complete his check in,” said the 22-year-old native of Danville, Calif. “We ran into a lot of traffic and began wondering what was happening. Once we got closer, we saw a van with a huge dent in the side and a man lying in a pool of blood. There was a second man elevating his legs.”
Regan and Toon immediately stopped their truck to offer assistance.
“Petty Officer Regan took control of the situation right away,” said Toon, who had only been in Japan for a mere two days. “First, he told me to wait in the car so he could see what was happening. As soon as he realized the seriousness of the situation, he told me to get out of the car and direct traffic away from the victim.”
“It was just automatic…we were just doing what needed to get done,” said Toon.
Lucky for the victim, Regan had recently requalified in first aid treatment just weeks before.
“It was drizzling outside and the victim was pale white, so I felt the victim may be getting cold. I then placed a blanket from a nearby vegetable stand on him and began treating him for shock. Then, I assessed the wounds and tried to stop the bleeding,” said Regan.
“ACU-5 is very proud of Petty Officer Regan’s actions,” said Lt. Daniel VanTrump, ACU-5 DET WESTPAC ALFA officer-in-charge. “He acted selflessly in providing medical treatment, taking control of the scene and rendering assistance.”
“He is one of the Navy’s rising stars,” continued VanTrump. “He’s a hard working, talented individual on his way for a long, illustrious Naval career.”
“Honestly, I don’t see why this is such a big deal,” said Regan, “It’s something I wish someone would do for me if it was me in that situation. I think everyone in this room can say that. We [Americans] also have to realize that we’re guests in this country. We need to help each other.”
For more information on Commander, Fleet Activites Sasebo, Japan, visit their Web site at www.cfas.navy.mil.