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Injured airman returns to Minot as a hero

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A 5th Security Forces Squadron Airman whose actions have been attributed to saving another Airmans life at Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan, returned here March 22.

Airman 1st Class Joshua Beach used self-aid buddy care procedures on Airman 1st Class Anthony Pizzifred, also a member of the 5th SFS, after he stepped on a landmine during a patrol March 13.

Airman Beach took over command and control of the scene once Tony (Airman Pizzifred) was injured, said Lt. Col. Jim Jeffers, 5th SFS commander. His training kicked in and he did what he was supposed to do.

According to Colonel Jeffers, medical authorities have stated that Airman Beach did a great job and without his actions, Airman Pizzifred may have not lived.

Airman Beach applied the self-aid buddy care tactics we are all taught and saved a life, said the commander. His experience will make us all more prepared when we deploy.

Both Airmen were medically evacuated from Afghanistan to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Germany, where they received treatment before being transferred to Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, D.C.

 

Airman Pizzifred is still at Walter Reed. 

Airman Pizzifred asked me to relay his thanks for all the kind assistance and support he has received from Team Minot, said Colonel Jeffers. He is in really good spirits and hoping to be back on duty soon.

Airman Beach will return to duty here after a two-week post deployment break.

Im glad my training paid off, Beach said. Everything turned out for the best and Im glad to be home.