State trooper honored with national award for saving a life on I-87

A New York State trooper was honored with a national certificate Tuesday for his quick action in saving a driver’s life in January.

The American Red Cross honored Trooper Michael Nash at its Albany headquarters, after Nash was credited with performing life-saving CPR that saved a person’s life on the Northway in Colonie.

The Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action is awarded to people who use lifesaving skills to keep someone alive during an emergency. Nash was called to the scene for a report of someone possibly in cardiac arrest. When he arrived, he found the person with no pulse, took them out of the car and began chest compressions as he waited for an ambulance. EMS credited him with keeping the person alive.

Trooper Nash remained humble about his actions that day. He said his training kicked in and he did what any trooper would do.

“This is an amazing feeling, definitely didn’t think this was going to happen. Obviously I think anybody else would’ve done the same thing. If any of our other troopers were in the same position, same call, I know they would’ve acted the same,” he said.

Red Cross Regional CEO Kevin Coffey says it’s a reminder that knowing CPR could be the difference between life and death.

“When seconds matter, it’s so important that folks are trained in live saving skills like CPR. We encourage everyone to find a course and be sure that you’re ready. Right now someone is going to be home with their family for thanksgiving, thanks to state trooper Nash’s actions,” he said.

The Red Cross offers in-person, online and hybrid CPR classes. Click here for more information.