By Lauren Russell, 66th Air Base Group Public Affair
A 66th Logistics Readiness Squadron noncommissioned officer was recognized by senior leaders for acts of heroism during a ceremony at Hanscom Air Force Base on Friday, July 14.
Tech. Sgt. Jacob McCloud, 66 LRS quality assurance evaluator, was awarded the Air and Space Commendation Medal for his actions following a major vehicle accident in Concord, on May 1.
“This medal is in recognition of an act of courage that tells us who Sergeant McCloud is as a person,” said Col. Taona Enriquez, installation commander, who presided over the ceremony.
According to official reports, McCloud witnessed a vehicle leave the roadway, strike a tree, and continue down a 15-foot embankment, coming to rest in a water-filled culvert.
McCloud flagged down a passing vehicle for assistance and then, without concern for his own safety, proceeded down the embankment to render care to the single occupant who was pinned inside the vehicle, unconscious.
He then stayed on scene until Concord Fire and Police Departments arrived, and assisted in extricating the passenger who was then immediately flown by helicopter to a trauma center.
“Sergeant McCloud didn’t know who was in the car, why the accident happened, or what was at the bottom of that hill; he just acted,” said Enriquez.
Recounting his actions, McCloud said he relied on his Tactical Combat Casualty Care training, as well as his prior experience as a firefighter in Redding, California, before beginning his Air Force career.
He lauded his fellow good Samaritan who stopped that day, as well as members of the Concord Fire Department, who attended the award ceremony to extend their appreciation for his efforts.
“I’m just glad I could be there to help,” McCloud said.
During the ceremony, Concord Fire Chief Tom Judge presented McCloud with a framed copy of a letter he wrote to Col. Enriquez praising him for his actions.
McCloud is slated to retire from the Air Force in 2024 after 20 years of service.
Loading ...
