BARRIGADA, Guam -- When Sgt. Gregory San Agustin heard the call for a medic the morning of Sept. 11, he made a fateful decision that ended up saving a life. Although he is not a trained medic, San Agustin did attend a Combat Lifesaver course. So without hesitation, he chose to raise his hand and answer the call.
When he arrived and saw his fellow comrade lying on the ground, San Agustin recognized the signs of a heart attack and sprang into action. He helped the Soldier regain consciousness, placed him in the proper position, and tended to him until help arrived.
In a coining ceremony Sept. 14, Capt. Duane Sablan thanked San Agustin on video teleconference.
"In a moment like that, every second counts," Sablan said. "And in my case, this was especially true. When I got to the doctor, they said I was extremely lucky that I got assistance in time.
"They classified what I had as a massive heart attack, and things could have been much worse. There are not enough times or ways I can possibly thank you. But from my family and from the bottom of my now-recovering heart, thank you," said Sablan.
San Agustin replied: "I thank the Guam Guard for giving me the proper training so that I could help, and for and mentoring me to become the type of person who will do the right thing. Rest up sir, and get better soon."