Prepared to Act: Red Cross Training Helps CDOT Employee Save a Life

Published on March 31, 2026

Red Cross Month is a time to recognize the everyday heroes who step forward when it matters most — and to highlight how preparation and compassion can make an extraordinary difference when emergencies strike.

Last year, a routine workday at a Charlotte Department of Transportation (CDOT) facility quickly became a medical emergency when an employee began choking. Within moments, coworker Reginald LaMon, a City of Charlotte employee trained through the American Red Cross, recognized the danger and took action.

Using skills he learned through Red Cross Adult First Aid/CPR/AED training, LaMon intervened immediately, clearing the airway and restoring breathing before emergency responders arrived. His quick thinking and calm response helped save his coworker’s life.

On Tuesday, March 31, the American Red Cross honored LaMon with a Certificate of Merit, one of the organization’s highest civilian lifesaving awards. The recognition is part of the Red Cross Lifesaving Awards program, which honors individuals whose decisive actions, using Red Cross training, help prevent loss of life during emergencies.

“Red Cross Month is about recognizing the moments when preparation meets compassion,” said Jason Gudzunas, executive director of American Red Cross. “Reginald’s actions show how lifesaving training can transform an ordinary workday into a moment that truly makes a difference.”

The American Red Cross Lifesaving Awards program has recognized heroic actions for more than a century, honoring people who use lifesaving skills to help others in moments of crisis. Since the program’s revival in 2018, thousands of individuals worldwide have been recognized for actions that helped save lives — reinforcing the critical role everyday people play when emergencies happen.

Through partnerships with employers like CDOT, the Red Cross provides First Aid, CPR and AED training that prepares individuals to act quickly and confidently when seconds count. Training is available in online, blended and in-person formats and is designed for workplaces, community groups and individuals alike.

“We are incredibly proud of Reginald's quick thinking and lifesaving actions,” said Debbie Smith, director of CDOT. “At the City of Charlotte, it is important to us that the training is available for Team Charlotte to be able to make a difference at work, at home and anywhere in between.”

As Red Cross Month continues, stories like LaMon’s serve as powerful reminders that lifesaving skills aren’t just for emergencies — they’re for everyday life.

To learn more about Red Cross Lifesaving Awards and explore First Aid, CPR and AED training, visit the Red Cross website.