A Police awards ceremony for people who have displayed exceptional courage in MK took place on Monday evening.
The eight awards were presented at Stadium MK by Temporary Superintendent Vince Grey (the commander for the Milton Keynes local police area) and his management team.
Among the recipients were PCSO (Police Community Support Officer) John Cowling and a member of the public, who received commendations relating to separate incidents.
PCSO Cowling was commended for his actions in helping to save the life of a member of the public in January 2016. After locating a man who had attempted to commit suicide, PCSO Cowling managed to cut the rope. He was unable to find a pulse and the man was not breathing. PCSO Cowling administered CPR, saving the man’s life. He demonstrated leadership, selflessness and doing the right thing in a difficult situation.
Another commendation recipient was to a member of the public, Jeremy O’Neill, who was commended for his swift actions in December 2015. After witnessing an elderly man jump into the River Ouzel, Mr O’Neill called the emergency services before jumping into the extremely cold water and dragging the man out. He quickly removed the man’s wet clothing to help raise his core temperature. The man’s survival and recovery were principally down to Mr O’Neill’s selflessness in putting his own welfare at risk to save the life of another.
Temporary Supt Grey said: “Commendation ceremonies offer an opportunity to highlight the fantastic work done by police officers, staff and members of the public in Milton Keynes."
“Both John and Jeremy have gone above and beyond what is expected of them in such challenging situations."
“Their bravery contributes to making the community a safer place in which to live, work and visit.”
