FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   April 29, 2002

LANSING. The Michigan State Police Board of Awards is pleased to announce Tpr. Fernando Martinez of the Lansing Post is a recipient of the Michigan State Police Lifesaving Award. He is credited with administering first aid to save the life of another.

On December 20, 2001, while at the First District’s Christmas luncheon, Trooper Martinez responded to Ms. Mary Ann Feick, First District secretary, when she signaled to him that she was choking on her food. Upon approaching her, Trooper Martinez found her unable to speak or breathe. After repeatedly performing the Heimlich maneuver on her, a large piece of food was dislodged from her throat.

In presenting this award, the Michigan State Police Board of Awards recognizes that Trooper Martinez’s quick actions and presence of mind played a crucial role in saving the victim’s life.

Trooper Martinez enlisted with the department in 1978 as a member of the 95th Recruit School. Upon graduation, he was assigned to the Hart Post and has since served consecutively at the East Lansing, Lansing, New Baltimore, Detroit, Ionia, Rockford, and Lansing posts.

A native of Grand Rapids, Trooper Martinez attended Ferris State College and Kendall School of Design. Trooper Martinez currently resides in Portland with his wife and child.

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