By Joseph Slacian
jslacian@thepaperofwabash.com
WABASH, Ind. – Wabash Firefighter/Paramedic Joe Butterbaugh was honored Monday night during the Wabash City Council meeting.
Butterbaugh received a Cardiac Save Award from Zoll for his efforts in helping save the life of a Wabash man in December 2017.
Mayor Scott Long said that on Dec. 16, paramedics were sent to the home of Roger Miller after receiving a report that Miller was having problems breathing and had collapsed. Family members began performing CPR on Miller until firefighters took over.
Miller was taken to hospital and, Long said, it was “touch and go” along the way.
Miller has since recovered and was on hand, thanking Butterbaugh for his efforts with a handshake and a hug.
Miller said he appreciated the efforts of not only those who helped save him, but the efforts of all emergency personnel.
In addition to a certificate, Butterbaugh also received a heart-shaped, Cardiac Save pin.
Also slated to receive the honors were WFD Lt. Kevin Brainard and Firefighter/EMT Bryan Beeks.
Meanwhile, Wabash Fire Department Lt. Phil Penn was honored by the City of Wabash on Monday for his retirement.
Penn served 30 years on the department, having been hired on June 25, 1988.