Officer Paul Gonzales with the Kerrville Police Department was recognized by San Antonio AirLIFE for assisting with a medical emergency.

On May 8th, 2014 a four year old patient being evaluated at Peterson Regional Medical Center (PRMC) was deemed to be in critical condition. It was determined the child needed immediate transport to San Antonio for specialty care and would be transported by San Antonio AirLIFE.

Upon arrival to PRMC, the Airlife crew discovered the mother and patient were Spanish speaking only. None of crew members spoke Spanish and this barrier impeded the crew from giving a mandatory Federal Aviation Administration safety briefing to the mother. Given the child’s condition, it was imperative the child be transported to San Antonio as soon as possible and it was equally crucial the mother attend the child on the flight.

Kerrville EMS, present at the location, requested assistance from Kerrville Police Department Dispatchers. Shortly thereafter, Officer Gonzales responded to PRMC to provide the mandatory safety briefing to the child’s mother in Spanish, helping the mother understand the immediate course of action. Officer Gonzales not only translated information of great importance, but was also a critical link in making sure the child got the immediate medical care that he desperately needed.

For this reason, San Antonio AirLIFE recognized Officer Gonzales’ willingness to assist others in need and presented him with the “Star of AirLIFE” certificate of appreciation. Mr. Lee Fernandez, San Antonio AirLIFE’s Customer Relations Representative, presented the award to Officer Gonzales. In attendance for the presentation were members of the AirLIFE crew and numerous co-workers from the Kerrville Police Department to show their support.