STURGIS - Two Sturgis police officers were recognized for their persistence and quick action that helped save the life of an elderly U.S. Air Force veteran during a welfare check this summer.

Sgt. Dylan Goetsch and Officer Matthew Jacobs were recognized with the Lifesaving Award for their actions at the Sturgis City Council meeting on Monday, Oct. 5.

The two responded to the home of a veteran in Sturgis on Sunday, July 19, after a friend and neighbor became concerned that he had not answered his phone for more than 24 hours and had not been seen outside his home.

The veteran, who lives alone, had been released from the VA hospital just two days earlier.

After arriving at the residence, the officers attempted to make contact at the doors and searched around the home, looking through windows for any sign of the veteran. Sgt. Goetsch climbed onto the garage roof in an attempt to see through a bedroom window, while Officer Jacobs continued checking the perimeter and confirmed that the veteran's vehicle was still inside the closed garage.

Concerned that the veteran could be in immediate danger, the officers continued looking for a way into the residence. Sgt. Goetsch eventually discovered an unlocked basement window. Both officers climbed through the small window and began searching the home.

They found the veteran lying on the floor of an upstairs bathroom. He was bleeding and drifting in and out of consciousness.

Sgt. Goetsch and Officer Jacobs immediately began providing aid, secured the scene and requested paramedics. They remained with the veteran and provided assistance until emergency medical personnel arrived. Sgt. Goetsch then helped paramedics carry the veteran to the waiting ambulance.

The veteran was transported to the Sturgis hospital emergency department, where medical personnel indicated that he likely would not have survived had the officers not been persistent in gaining entry to the home and locating him.

Because of their determination to continue the welfare check rather than leave when they initially could not make contact, the veteran received the emergency medical care he needed and survived, said Gregg Harrington, the person who nominated the officers for the award.

“The actions of Sgt. Goetsch and Officer Jacobs demonstrate the importance of welfare checks and the commitment of Sturgis police officers to the people they serve,” Harrington said. “Their professionalism, persistence and composure under difficult circumstances reflect great credit upon themselves, the Sturgis Police Department and the City of Sturgis.”

The veteran continues to recover following the incident.