A group of Ameren Illinois employees is being recognized by the St. Louis regional chapter of the American Red Cross for their quick actions to save the life of a co-worker last year. Five workers from Ameren Illinois’ Mount Vernon Operating Center will receive an emergency medical assistance award at the Red Cross Heroes Breakfast at The Chase Park Plaza in St. Louis on March 26.
On the morning of March 11, 2014, Ameren Illinois Substation Crew Leader Mike Pulke went into cardiac arrest at the Mount Vernon Operating Center. Co-workers Bruce Clarry, Glenn Eberhart, Brad Ghast, Brandon Koester and Greg Kueker quickly deployed the automated external defibrillator (AED) treatment and then administered CPR. Pulke was later transported to a hospital where he made a full recovery.
“These Ameren Illinois employees are true heroes,” said Peggy Barnhart, Director of Communications and Governmental Relations for the American Red Cross Greater St. Louis Region. “The Red Cross is so pleased to honor them. This team worked together to help their co-worker in need. We hope their example will encourage others to become trained in first aid and CPR.”
“I am so proud of how Brad, Bruce, Greg, Brandon, Glenn reacted when the saw that Mike was in distress,” said Richard Mark, President of Ameren Illinois. “Ameren Illinois is known for being a first responder when power needs to be restored. These workers demonstrated their commitment to safety by responding quickly to save one of their own.”
“My extended family sprang into action, came to my rescue and saved my life. I am very grateful,” Pulke said. “I wouldn’t be here today if the guys weren’t properly trained in CPR and how to use the AEDs we have in the operating center.”
Mike’s wife, Carla, called the five her family’s heroes.
“I am very grateful for the guys who work with Mike,” Carla Pulke said. “He would not be alive had they not been trained and put that training to work.”
About Ameren Illinois
Ameren Illinois delivers energy to 1.2 million electric and 812,000 natural gas customers in downstate Illinois, and our mission is to power the quality of life. Our service territory covers more than 1,200 communities and 43,700 square miles. For more information, visit AmerenIllinois.com. Follow us on Twitter @AmerenIllinois and Facebook.
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