TWO holidaying American police officers have been hailed as heroes after saving the life of a 71-year-old Irishman.
Officers Matthew Thomas and Matthew Gilhooley were in a pub in Kenmare, Co. Kerry when the pensioner suddenly fell from his chair and collapsed to the floor next to them.
The elderly Irish man had suffered a cardiac arrest, but luckily for him, the two American punters in the pub were Certified First Responders.
Fortunately the pair were able to perform life-saving CPR and used a defibrillator on the man, who was later rushed to Cork University Hospital.
Port Authority Police Benevolent Association shared the news on their Facebook page, posting: "The officers, who were on vacation, had just entered PF McCarthy's Pub when the gentleman fell from his chair.
"Thomas and Gilhooley rushed to the man's aid and quickly determined he was in cardiac arrest. The officers began CPR along with using two shocks from a defibrillator.
"After approximately 15 minutes of CPR the man regained his pulse and began to breathe on his own.
"Thomas and Gilhooley continued to attend to the man until the local EMS unit arrived. The gentleman was transported to Cork University Hospital where he continues to receive care."
The post also explained how Port Authority training had proved vital in the emergency situation.
"Thomas and Gilhooley are four year veterans of the Port Authority Police Department and are, as all PAPD officers are, certified first responders trained in CPR, the use of a defibrillator, the proper application of a tourniquet among other lifesaving procedures,” they wrote.
"All PAPD officers are recertified annually. PAPD: Highly Trained, Historically Tested, True Blue. Others Before Self."
Others were quick to commend Officer Thomas and Officer Gilhooley for saving the life of the unwell 71-year-old.
One person wrote: "Even after a couple of pints you guys kicked ass. Good job gentlemen."
Another commented: “I'm retired Dallas PD living just outside Kenmare. If they are still here in Kerry today, have them message me - would be honoured to buy them a few pints!”
