Santana Smith, accompanied by his parents Dean and Zulima Smith, was presented the Sons of the American Revolution Heroism Medal and Certificate at the October 27, 2012 meeting. Santana, by quick and calm reaction saved the life of a fellow Naval Cadet during recent basic training. The stricken Cadet suffered a late night allergy attack in his sleep. Santana, in a bunk close by, awakened and responded with the proper first aid and then by coordinating help saved the man.
Gary O. Green, President of the Lower Cape Fear Chapter, SAR presents the Heroism Medal to Sea Cadet Santana Smtih
His account in his words, Santana describes his ordeal:
"During my Navy boot camp training I experienced a night that I'll always remember. We were five minutes away from lights out and my bunkmate Cadet Serrano had already fallen asleep. I knew he was probably tired because of injuring his wrist and taking medicine for it. Suddenly he started breathing really loud and heavy. I thought he was just dreaming and mumbling but then noticed his body also shaking. I immediately tried to shake him awake. I yelled his name and screamed for help but he still wouldn't respond. I continued to yell and remain by his side and shortly after a Master at Arms (MAA) arrived and instructed me to run to get the Corpsman so she could stay with Serrano. I ran across the barracks as fast as I could and told the Corpsman what had happened. She ran back to Serrano where she took his pulse, heart rate, and temperature. The paramedics arrived and took Serrano to the hospital. When I woke up the next morning Serrano had returned and told me that he had an allergic reaction to the medicine. We went on to finish our training and graduate with Golf Company."
His parents describe him.
"Santana is not only a name but a young man you'll never forget. He embraces life whole heartedly. He strives for perfection and finds enjoyment and humor in even the simplest of things. He's not afraid of a challenge and always looks to improve himself. He's involved in the community and participates with First Fruit Ministries once a month to help feed the homeless. He loves sports, being a Navy Sea Cadet, surfing amongst others."
