A U.S. Navy corpsman has received recognition for his heroic actions in saving a Marine from a severe heat-related illness, according to a report from the Marine Corps Reserve.
Heroic Intervention
Hospital Corpsman Petty Officer 1st Class Billy Bui, part of the 4th Marine Division, was stationed at Camp Talega in Camp Pendleton, California, when he sprang into action in August 2024.
For his selfless and decisive intervention, he was awarded the Navy Achievement Medal.
The incident unfolded during a daytime land navigation training exercise when Bui was alerted through radio from the combat operations center about a medical emergency.
Understanding the gravity of the situation, he quickly hopped into a Humvee, bringing a stretcher along to lend immediate aid.
Upon reaching the scene, Bui encountered a Marine who had collapsed.
Other Marines were already attending to him, removing his clothing to help cool him down.
Sensing the potential risk for airway obstruction due to the Marine’s position, Bui immediately instructed a fellow Marine to insert a nasal pharyngeal airway, enhancing airflow as they prepared for the critical move down the hill.
As the Humvee raced back to the base, Bui worked quickly, applying ice to the Marine’s body to lower his dangerously elevated internal temperature, which was later measured at a staggering 106 degrees Fahrenheit—clear evidence of heat stroke.
Throughout the tense moments, Bui offered encouragement to the Marine, maintaining a connection despite the dire circumstances.
Continuous Training and Legacy
Upon arrival at the base, they were met by paramedics who ensured the Marine received prompt medical evacuation by helicopter.
Days later, Bui learned that the Marine remembered hearing his voice, even while being unable to respond or move—a testament to the bond formed in crisis.
Reflecting on the experience, Bui attributed his effective response to the rigorous training he had undergone.
He highlighted the necessity of continual practice to keep medical skills sharp, as any lapse can lead to dire consequences.
Ongoing training, he noted, is vital for staying abreast of the latest medical techniques.
Bui also shared the impact of his grandfather’s legacy on his life.
The resilience and sense of duty inherited from his grandfather, a captain in the Army of the Republic of Vietnam, played a crucial role in shaping who he is today.
As the Vietnam War drew to a close, his grandfather sought a way to escape the turmoil.
After boarding a small fishing vessel with his family, they set out into the uncertain waters of the Pacific.
Just as hope seemed dim, they spotted the U.S. Navy frigate USS Hepburn.
In a daring move to signal for help, Bui’s grandfather created a makeshift emergency by puncturing their boat, successfully catching the Navy’s attention.
The family was rescued and taken to safety, closing a tumultuous chapter in their lives.
Inspiration from Sacrifice
Reflecting on his grandfather’s sacrifices, Bui expressed how this strong sense of duty has motivated him to serve his own country, reinforcing his commitment to helping others in need.
Source: Militarytimes