Hatboro Teen Saves Stepfather's Life, Receives National Recognition

(Pictured from right to left: Former Scoutmaster James Swan, Michael Cunningham, Karen Bustard, Robert Bustard and Scoutmaster John Metzger.)

A 14-year-old Hatboro teen has been awarded a National Medal of Merit from the Boy Scouts of America for saving his stepfather’s life.

Michael Cunningham of Hatboro Troop 81 on Monday was presented with the award, which recognizes “an act of service of rare or exceptional character that reflects an uncommon degree of concern for the well-being of others.”

According to a post on Patch’s Bulletin Board, Michael performed the Heimlich maneuver on his stepfather, Robert Bustard, after he choked on a piece of sandwich and could not breathe last October.

“BSA National awards for lifesaving and meritorious action are made only for outstanding and unusual acts that demonstrate unusual heroism, skill, or bravery and reflect Scouting ideals,” the Bulletin Board post reads.

According to the post, Michael learned the Heimlich maneuver from Boy Scout first aid training. On his twelfth attempt, the piece of food dislodged from his stepfather’s throat, saving his life. Mike then stayed by his stepfather’s side and calmed him down.

“Michael remained calm in an emergency situation, taking action and putting to use the lifesaving skills he was taught to save another person’s life,” the post said. Click here to read the full post.