Springfield Airman saves lives again,
receives Ohio's highest military award
By 2nd Lt. Jenna Walton, 178th Wing Public Affairs
Master Sgt. Dallas Root (right), a member of the 178th Wing, receives the Ohio Cross from Maj. Gen. Mark E. Bartman, Ohio adjutant general, Oct. 15, 2016, at Springfield Air National Guard Base in Springfield, Ohio. Root received the award for administering first aid to a vehicle accident victim and coordinating with emergency dispatchers. More than 10 years ago, Root received his first Ohio Cross, the state’s highest military award, for diving into a freezing pond to save a vehicle accident victim. (Ohio National Guard photo by Rachel Simones) |
SPRINGFIELD, Ohio (10/15/16) — Master Sgt. Dallas E. Root, a member of the 178th Wing, was presented the Ohio Cross by Maj. Gen. Mark E. Bartman, Ohio adjutant general, during a ceremony Oct. 15 at the Springfield Air National Guard Base.
Last December, Root came upon a three-vehicle accident and stopped to provide assistance, immediately taking charge of the scene and administering first aid to a severely injured victim. As he was tending to the victim, Root also coordinated with emergency dispatchers to get first responders to the accident scene.
“Master Sgt. Root epitomizes the role of Citizen-Airman, not only answering the call for the defense of our nation but also serving and safe guarding the residents of his local community,” said Chief Master Sgt. Scott McKenzie, the 178th Wing command chief master sergeant.
The Ohio Cross, the highest state-level military award, is presented to any member of the state military forces who distinguishes himself or herself by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his or her life. It was actually the second time that Root has received the Ohio Cross, having previously earned it in 2005 for saving the victim of an auto accident, whose car was partially submerged in a freezing lake.
“It’s amazing that it’s the second time in 11 years because it’s pretty rare that anybody would receive the Ohio Cross not just once in their lifetime, but twice,” Bartman said. “For us to come here today and recognize Sgt. Root is truly incredible.”
Added Root’s wing commander, Col. John Knabel, “We are extremely proud of Master Sgt. Root and honored that we get to serve with one of Ohio’s finest Airmen.” |
