Lifeguard Honored For Saving The Life Of Fellow Chatham Teen

CHATHAM, NJ — A Chatham High School senior has been recognized by the American Red Cross for his heroic efforts in saving his friend's life.

Kiernan Smith was awarded a merit certificate from the American Red Cross for his actions in a restaurant to save a friend from choking. Smith was honored on Wednesday at the American Red Cross of Northern New Jersey.

According to the American Red Cross, near the end of July 2022, Smith employed airway obstruction techniques he learned during an American Red Cross lifeguard training session, such as back strikes and abdominal thrusts, to dislodge food from his friend's airway, saving his life.

This recognition is considered one of the greatest accolades given to an individual or group of individuals who save or maintain a life by applying skills and information obtained in a Red Cross training course.

"This action exemplifies the highest level of concern of one individual by another," the American Red Cross said. The certificate carries the signatures of the President of the United States, Joe Biden as Honorary Chairman of the Red Cross, and Red Cross Chairman Bonnie McElveen-Hunter.

In addition, the Red Cross was able to present the Lifesaving Instructors Award to Henry Cortacans of Lawrenceville, the teacher who taught Smith Red Cross lifesaving techniques.

To learn Red Cross lifesaving skills, like first aid and CPR, register for a Red Cross Training Services class at redcross.org/Take-A-Class.