On June 16th, the Honolulu Fire Department recognized 55 civilians, police officers, and fire fighters at its first Commendation Ceremony since the start of the pandemic.
Pacific Biodiesel’s Oahu Plant Manager Brian Leighton, pictured above, received a Certificate of Commendation for his actions on August 19, 2021. While making a bank deposit, Leighton saw a car crash in the parking lot. He and another civilian assisted the driver whose heart had stopped. They removed the unresponsive individual from the automobile and initiated CPR prior to the HFD’s arrival. The individual was breathing by the time he was transported to the hospital.
The HFD awards a Medal of Valor to individuals whose quick actions included saving a life. A Certificate of Commendation is presented to those who put themselves in harm’s way to perform exceptional acts of service or brave
“You never know what the day will hold. So make the right choices and do the right thing,” said Leighton. “It was humbling to receive an award for something that anyone would do in the same situation.”
Managing Director Michael Formby and Fire Chief Sheldon Hao delivered remarks during the program at Mission Memorial Auditorium where recipients were honored.
“The heroes we honored today did not hesitate to help a fellow human being,” said Chief Hao. “In the face of adversity, they chose to take action and went above and beyond to perform the extraordinary. This kind of compassion and call to service is not exclusive to first responders.”
