DAEGU, SOUTH KOREA -- If there is one thing the great city of Seoul envies of Gotham City, it would be a superhero saving its citizens. On an early December morning, Seoul didn't need Batman, Staff Sgt. James G. Mckeehan, Platoon Sergeant for 1st platoon, 142nd Military Police Company, 94th MP Battalion filled in to save the day.
On cold and early December morning, Mckeehan began his commute to formation when he drove past a crowd gathered around a scooter laying on its side. He got out of his car and approached the scene. Mckeehan saw a foot and hand protruding from underneath the scooter. There were more than 50 terrified spectators, idly watching critically wounded victim.
"There were like 50 people just watching. They were super quiet, taking pictures and whispering to each other." Mckeehan recalls.
Mckeehan and another brave volunteer pushed the scooter off the unresponsive and breathless victim. McKeehan immediately used his medical skills, acquired through military combat lifesaver training, to perform a head-tilt chin-lift to open the victim's airway.
Following McKeehan's rescue attempts, the victim began coughing and breathing again. Mckeehan secured the victim's body tightly to prevent further damage to the victim's contorted legs. Moments later, an ambulance safely transferred the victim to the hospital.
Capt. Christina D. Boschert, the commander of the 142nd Military Police Company, proudly praised Mckeehan's heroic actions.
"I think what Staff Sgt. McKeehan did was brave and I'm proud of him for stepping up." said Boschert.
A few days after the incident 94th MP battalion commander, Lt. Col. Jimmy Carlson recognized Mckeehan. Command Sgt. Maj. Michael L. Jeanes of the 94th MP Battalion gave him a coin in front of his peers.
Mckeehan's actions greatly reflected the values of the U.S. Army, especially selfless service and personal courage. He encouraged his fellow Soldiers to be proactive in situations they can render their assistance.
"I think service members need to be prepared to act in extreme situations when others wouldn't," said McKeehan.
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