'Extraordinary Service': Local Hero Who Saved Child's Life Honored By Town Officials

ISLIP, NY – Islip officials honored a local hero during a Town Board meeting on Tuesday.

The hero is Jason Schafer, a school security officer at Cordello Avenue Elementary School, who earned the title after saving the life of a student who started choking on a bottle cap during an exam.

Cordello student Tyler White was in the middle of taking a test when the cap became lodged in his throat and his teacher ran into the hall looking for help.

Officials said Schafer was nearby and "responded promptly and professionally."

He went into the classroom and first attempted to dislodge the cap by hitting Tyler on the back. When that didn’t work, he "quickly and calmly" performed the Heimlich maneuver.

"Thanks to his swift action, the cap was dislodged and Tyler was able to breathe again," officials said in a statement. "Officer Schafer stepped in during a nerve-racking situation, stayed composed and saved a child’s life."

Tyler also attended the recognition ceremony and "sincerely expressed his thanks" to Officer Schafer.

"The Town of Islip proudly honors Officer Jason Schafer for his extraordinary service and commitment to the safety of our students," officials said.