EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — A Navy Reserve sailor demonstrated the Navy’s mindset of responding and serving at any moment and without hesitation when he stepped in to assist a woman in need.
The Navy Office of Community Outreach (NAVCO) made the announcement on Aug. 3 in a news release.
Operation Specialist 1st Class (OS1) Ueldiv Ortiz Santiago, a native of Orocovis, Puerto Rico, and a U.S. Navy Reserve sailor assigned to the Navy Reserve Center (NRC) El Paso, noticed a wheelchair-bound woman appearing to be in a “catatonic state” near the intersection of Dyer Street and Fred Wilson Avenue, according to NAVCO.
NAVCO said that without hesitation, Ortiz Santiago stopped and called 911 emergency services while he remained by the woman’s side and administered basic first aid.
An unknown soldier also assisted during the situation, and together they remained on scene to ensure the woman’s safety until first responders arrived, NAVCO added.
“As a warfighter, readiness means to actively be able to step up when in a time of need, no matter what the circumstances may be,” Ortiz Santiago said.
Ortiz Santiago enlisted in the Navy in 2017. He monitors radar and satellite systems to track and guide surface vessels, aircraft, and submarines, according to NAVCO.
“We are the eyes of the Navy, tracking and guiding surface vessels, aircraft, and even submarines with the help of radar and satellite systems,” said Ortiz Santiago.
In addition to his Navy Reserve duties, NAVCO said that Ortiz Santiago balances his military service with civilian life, a hallmark of the Navy Reserve force known as Selected Reserve Sailors. These men and women pursue civilian careers while remaining mission-ready for mobilization and global operations.
“I believe this is a great demonstration of what the Naval Reserve and NRC El Paso stand for,” said Gunner’s Mate Petty Officer 2nd Class Erik Garcia, who was a witness to the selfless actions of Ortiz Santiago.
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