USS San Antonio Sailors, First Responders

ELLIS ISLAND, N.Y. (NNS) -- Sailors from USS San Antonio (LPD 17) assisted National Park Service officials and police officers from the NYPD in emergency efforts after David Blaha, a tourist from California, fainted May 26 while waiting for a tour of the Statue of Liberty.

Ensign Ann Luken, San Antonio’s Repair Department division officer, and Fire Controlman 2nd Class Justin Ellsworth, worked quickly to treat Blaha and his injuries. The Sailors were assisted in their efforts by Erin R. Pilch, an emergency room technician from Virginia Beach, Va., who was a guest at Ellsworth’s reenlistment.

“We as a group did exactly what our Health Services Department has been teaching us,” said Ellsworth. “It just kicked in. We treated the injury and monitored his airway, breathing and circulation until Park Services other emergency help could arrive.”

“I had a chance to talk with Mr. Blaha’s wife and she explained to me they are from California and don’t have any other family members in the area,” said Lt. Dave Mowbray, chaplain aboard San Antonio. “I extended a hand and told her if they needed any help over the next week to give us a call.”

According to Luken, Sailors not involved in the rescue efforts cleared the area and provided a safe and calm environment for Blaha.

“Thankfully, David is going to be ok. This is just another example of San Antonio Sailors being prepared for anything at anytime,” said Luken.

“Our job requires us to serve and protect, that’s what we did,” said Ellsworth.

San Antonio Sailors were on hand for their shipmates' reenlistment ceremony, prior to their tour of Lady Liberty.

San Antonio was in New York for Fleet Week 2006. Fleet Week includes dozens of military demonstrations and displays throughout the week, as well as public visits of many of the participating ships. New York City has sponsored Fleet Week since 1984.

For related news, visit USS San Antonio (LPD 17) Navy NewsStand page at www.news.navy.mil/local/lpd17/.