An area police officer has been recognized during a ceremony by his department for acting fast to save a child’s life earlier this month.

According to a release from Boonville Police Chief Bobby Welliver, at 11:23 p.m. on December 8, Courtland Ross was on general patrol near Bingham and Eleventh Streets when a vehicle pulled over and asked for assistance for a child who was not breathing.

Ptl. Ross immediately contacted dispatch for medical services. Ptl. Ross noticed the child was blue in color and not breathing. He initiated two back blows to the baby, and the child began breathing.

Welliver says, “Ptl. Ross’ quick response, recognition of the medical emergency and immediate actions resulted directly in saving the life of the child. Failure to act or delay could have led to a different outcome.”

Welliver continued, “Your actions reflect highly, not only upon yourself, but also on the image and reputation of the Boonville, Missouri, Police Department.”

Ross was then presented a Letter of Commendation and Lifesaving Award. Welliver said: “through the authority vested in the chief of police, you are awarded this commendation on this date 12/28/2020.”

Photo: Sgt. Larry Roberts (right) presents Ptl. Courtland Ross with his Lifesaving Award. (Photo provided by the Boonville Police Department)