Marion, American Heart Association Honors Quick-Thinking Cruse for Heroism

By nature, firefighters and paramedics deserve our respect and admiration for their service to the community.

So, how do you top what you do on duty? Save someone's life when you're off duty.

That's what Ian Cruse did. The firefighter and paramedic with the Marion Fire Department was off-duty having dinner with his family at a local restaurant. Suddenly, a commotion ensued nearby and he sprung into action.

According to the City of Marion's Facebook page:

A woman was choking and someone else was attempting to do a Heimlich maneuver to dislodge the blockage, but the maneuver did not seem to be working. Ian stepped in and performed the life-saving action.

Cruse was honored with the American Heart Association's "Heartsaver Hero Award." It was presented at a recent Marion City Council meeting.