Thursday, April 7, 2022

Hero’s welcome

Police honor actions of young lifesaver

Romulus police presented gifts and accolades to
7-year-old Dawon Johnson last week for his actions
in saving his mother's life during a medical emergency.
The newest, and shortest, Romulus police officer has already proven he is enough of a hero to serve alongside the 77-officers in the department.

Dawon Johnson, 7, was officially named as a Junior Police Officer and inducted into the Romulus Police Department last Thursday in a special ceremony at city hall. As members of the police and fire department applauded, Mayor Robert McCraight officially declared March 31 as Dawon Johnson Day in Romulus, in response to the youngster's heroism in helping to save his mother's life recently.

Dawon's mother had suffered a serious medical emergency while she and the second-grade student were at home. The new junior officer immediately called 911 and spoke to Senior Dispatcher Gerald Golden. Working together on the phone for more than 30 minutes, the two were able to determine the address and send  medical help. Romulus Fire Department EMTs arrived and provided emergency medical care to Dawon’s mom who was  transported to a local hospital for treatment. She has now recovered, officials noted, and is doing well.

Golden said he was very impressed with the manner in which Dawon handled the emergency and the young hero’s efforts to stay calm and collected. The youngster even managed to wash the dishes and mop the floor during the call. As the story of the young hero spread through the public safety departments, police officers and firefighters chipped in to purchase some gifts for Dawon and suggested the award ceremony last week. 

Dawon, his mother, and several family members attended the special ceremony during which Dawon was lauded by members of both the police and fire departments and presented with several gifts, including a Nintendo Switch.

Police Chief Robert Pfannes commented, “Dawon is proof that heroes come in all shapes, sizes and ages.”