13 employees named Kentucky Colonels for saving colleague in choking incident last fall
PIKEVILLE, KY (Jan. 24, 2024) – Thirteen Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) employees from crew 342 Letcher County Maintenance were recognized at a ceremony for their heroic display of quick thinking and safety training to save the life of a fellow coworker who choked on the job last September. Hosted at the Department of Highways District 12 Office in Pikeville, Kentucky, state and local officials joined colleagues and family to issue awards and Kentucky Colonel commissions on behalf of Gov. Andy Beshear.
Bobby Stines, a seasoned member of the Letcher County Maintenance team, found himself in a life-threatening situation while riding as a passenger in a state vehicle when he choked on a meal. Thanks to prompt and decisive actions of multiple colleagues, Stines's life was spared. Attending the recognition ceremony was KYTC Secretary Jim Gray.
“Our highway crews are full of heroes who routinely come to the aid of those in need – whether it’s a stranger or one of our own,” said Secretary Gray. “This administration places a high priority on safety across the board and the training we offer staff is crucial because the unexpected can strike anywhere, anytime. I’m grateful Bobby is still with us thanks to his team.”
Gray and District 12 Chief District Engineer Mary Westfall-Holbrook presented the team with KYTC Heroic Action Safety Awards from the Secretary's Office of Safety. They were also presented with Kentucky Colonel commissions, the highest title of honor bestowed by Gov. Beshear.
Awards were presented to:
· Timothy Bentley
· Travis Yonts
· Jason Bolling
· Matt Maggard
· Ronnie Brock Jr.
· James Ison
· Ryan Fugate
· Seth Boggs
· Corey Houston
· Brandon Tolliver
· Ryan Johnson
· Sid Tolen
· Larry Easterling
"Our employees are not just coworkers; they are a family. The events of that day showed the strength of our bond and the effectiveness of our safety training," said Westfall-Holbrook.
The awards ceremony is not only a celebration of bravery, but an opportunity to showcase the significance of ongoing safety training within the organization. Last summer, District 12 Knott County highway crew members came to the rescue of a crash victim whose arm was pinned under a vehicle.
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Pictured Above: Members of Crew 342 Letcher County Maintenance
Pictured Left: Secretary Jim Gray awards Timothy Bentley with Kentucky Colonel commission
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