MINOT AIR FORCE BASE – Airmen of all ranks and career fields are required to complete many training courses throughout their career in the U.S. Air Force, some of which may feel monotonous or irrelevant to a certain Air Force Specialty Code ( AFSC). However, Airman 1st Class Mohammad Ghazi found himself in a situation that exemplifies why all airmen must be prepared to act in a moment of emergency.

While on lunch, Airman 1st Class Matthew Murphy began to choke on his food and required immediate assistance. “He started to cough repeatedly, and eventually started to show signs of struggling to breathe,” said Ghazi, who is currently enlisted in his first term as Security Forces in the 5th Bomb Wing at Minot Air Force Base.

Ghazi, having recently received annual cardiopulmonary resuscitation training, felt informed on how to correctly apply abdominal thrusts so that he may clear Murphy’s airway.

“I undid the velcro, removed his ballistic, and began abdominal thrusts until the food was dislodged,” said Ghazi.

Ghazi credits the recent CPR training he received in providing him with the confidence and ability to respond to the emergency and potentially save the life of Murphy.

Ghazi demonstrated an ability to take action without hesitation, resulting in having potentially saved the life of a fellow airmen. His actions have earned him a nomination for the American Red Cross Lifesaving Award for Professional Responders, recognizing trained professional responders and healthcare professionals acting while on duty.

“I think every AFSC should receive this training because anyone can find themselves in this situation,” said Ghazi.