(HONOLULU) Medical readiness is at the forefront of Regional Health Command-Pacific's (RHC-P) priorities. The region always stands ready to further enhance medical readiness, in line with the Army Surgeon General's first priority - to ensure a medically ready and deployable force.
The Pacific region is made up of a diverse community of Soldiers stationed throughout all of RHC-P's subordinate commands as well as at the headquarters location in Hawaii, on the island of Oahu. Each Soldier brings a unique set of knowledge and skills to their position - some in a medical capacity, others with another talent.
RHC-P's 1st Lt. Christopher Davis, Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC) Company Commander is a Soldier who knows the basics of providing medical care and is an example of a Soldier who is always mission ready, on-duty or off-duty.
Davis and his family were enjoying a day at a pool in a Waikiki hotel recently, when an unresponsive child was pulled from the hotel pool. Without hesitation, Davis stepped in to assist the lifeguard, performing CPR until emergency medical services (EMS) arrived and took over.
Although Davis is CPR certified and has earned the expert field medical badge (EFMB), his daily responsibilities do not entail providing medical care in a medical setting. Instead, he dedicates his time as a company commander, leading Soldiers by setting the example.
"There was no time to decide to step in, I just reacted," remembers Davis. "I credit my Army training which enabled me to react without thought, performing under stressful situations, ignoring the screaming and chaos surrounding me," added Davis.
He was ready and able to assist - in an instant - that day at the pool. His quick thinking and basic medical training saved a little girl's life. His actions were the epitome of the Army's number one priority-readiness.
"I am glad I was there and able to help," expressed Davis. "I would do everything exactly how I did it that day, and I would not hesitate to do it again."
Davis demonstrated that no matter what one's role is, whether wearing the Army uniform or enjoying the weekend with family, being prepared is extremely important. His actions turned a potential tragedy into a positive outcome.
"Tragedies can happen at the blink of an eye. Everyone needs to be vigilant at all times no matter where they are and what they are doing," advised Davis.
About Regional Health Command-Pacific
RHC-P orchestrates the delivery of world-class medical care for service members, families and eligible beneficiaries, and provides medical readiness and diplomacy in support of United States Army Pacific in the Pacific Command area of responsibility.
RHC-P's area of responsibility includes all medical, dental, public health, and warrior care and transition services in Hawaii, Washington, Alaska, Japan, Korea and throughout the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.
To learn more about RHC-P and what their subordinate commands are doing for beneficiaries and the community, visit www.army.mil/rchpacific.
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