RIPON - The Inter-Service EMS Recognition medal will be presented to Ripon Police School Resource Officer Scott Lindsay on Wednesday, Dec. 2, for his quick actions that saved the life of a man choking on food at a dinner in Stockton.

Lindsay was nominated for the award by Ripon Fire Department Captain Serena Johnson.

Director of the Emergency Medical Services Authority, R. Steven Tharratt, M.D., lauded Lindsay for providing timely and life-saving treatment for the victim of an obstructed airway.  

“You are part of a team of EMS leaders and medical professionals whose mandate is to not only provide medical care to those in need, but also to provide leadership and education to continue to advance the EMS system.  You have been selected to receive the award in recognition of your excellence, motivation and service,” he said.

Lindsay and Officer Matt Ford – both in uniform – were attending a Regional Occupational Program (ROP) dinner in late January at a San Joaquin County of Education dinner when a man was seen choking on his food.

Former Ripon schools trustee Frank Ferral called the officers over to his table when he saw the choking man turning color.  Lindsay asked the man if he was choking and unable to breathe, and he nodded.  Lindsay reportedly positioned himself behind the man and performed the Heimlich maneuver as fellow officer Ford held him upright.

The Heimlich was effective and the man expelled the obstruction allowing him to breathe.

Police Lieutenant Ed Ormonde said he, too, is requesting that Officers Lindsay receive the Citation of Merit as recognition for conducting the life-saving measure.

The award is to be presented as part of the EMS Commission meeting at 10 a.m. in San Francisco at the Marines’ Memorial Club in its eleventh floor Crystal Ballroom.