CC MEETING: September 23, 2025
DATE: September 15, 2025
TO: Erin Rinehart, City Manager
FROM: Michael Thomson, Fire Chief
Jody Byerly, Director of Public Works
Rex Redden, Executive Director of Public Safety
Shannon Hicks, Assistant City Manager
Title
Present Life Saving Award To Public Works Manager Josh Cohron For In-Flight Response To Medical Emergency
Body
BACKGROUND:
On August 20, 2025, while traveling aboard American Airlines Flight 1290 from Chicago to Dallas-Fort Worth, a passenger experienced a sudden medical emergency. The Flight Attendants requested assistance from anyone who had medical training. Public Works Manager and trained Public Works First Responder Josh Cohron stepped forward to assist. An elderly passenger was struggling with severe respiratory difficulties due to the failure of his oxygen machine. Josh responded, drawing from his training, to monitor the patient's vital signs, administer high-flow oxygen, and provide a calm, reassuring presence that helped stabilize the passenger's condition. Josh's quick actions ensured that the passenger in distress received the immediate medical care they needed, while also averting an emergency landing, which allowed the flight to safely arrive in Dallas where the passenger received advanced care from airport EMS personnel.
This incident reflects the identity and commitment of Public Works as First Responders. Through strong partnerships with Carrollton Fire Rescue, Public Works employees are trained as Basic Life Savers, equipping them to act decisively in moments where safety and human life hang in the balance. This collaboration ensures that the men and women of Public Works are not only skilled tradespeople dedicated to building and maintaining vital infrastructure but also trained responders ready to serve their community beyond the traditional scope of their work.
In recognition of his decisive actions, professional skill, and unwavering dedication to public safety, the City of...
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