An elementary school principal credited a Steger police officer’s quick action with saving an 11-year-old choking victim. The officer this week was honored for his effort.
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Sauk View Elementary Principal Blair Nuccio said Tuesday Steger D.A.R.E. officer Patrick Rossi, during a visit to the school, used the Heimlich maneuver to help the 5th grader.
Rossi’s action earned him a letter of commendation from Steger Police Chief Richard Stultz and praise Monday during the Village Board meeting.
Nuccio, whose school serves Steger and South Chicago Heights residents, said the youngster choked on a hot dog while sitting in the principal’s outer office on Nov. 19. Nuccio, who was in his inner office with a teacher, said “all of us heard a faint choking or gagging noise. The teacher looked into the outer office and said, `My goodness, he’s choking!’ “
Rossi, who had left the principal’s office seconds before, reached the student ahead of Nuccio and the teacher.