By John Dobberstein, Editor
Nine-year-old Spring Creek Elementary student Gavin Oxford was honored Tuesday with the Broken Arrow Fire Department’s Bravery Award for actions he took recently to help his twin brother was he was in medical distress.
Fire Chief Jeremy Moore, Mayor Debra Wimpee and City Manager Michael Spurgeon congratulated Gavin during a brief ceremony at Broken Arrow Fire Station #3.
Gavin and his twin brother Ethan were riding in the back seat of a vehicle as their grandmother Barbara Lare drove them to soccer practice. Ethan Oxford put a penny in his mouth and inadvertently inhaled, causing the penny to get lodged in his throat.
Gavin realized his brother was in distress and immediately put his arms around his waist and lifted while their older sister Audey pounded on his back. The penny became dislodged before Ms. Lare could come to a complete stop.
CLICK HERE TO SEE GAVIN EXPLAIN HIS STORY
Broken Arrow Fire Department will recognize Gavin for his quick response and bravery under pressure to save his brother’s life in a ceremony at the station. The BAFD Bravery Award recognizes individuals who demonstrate extraordinary courage in the most challenging situations and is rarely given to children at such a young age.
According to statistics at least one child dies from choking every five days in the U.S. and more than 12,000 children are taken to a hospital emergency room each year for choking injuries.
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