Two Victor Valley Transit Authority bus drivers are being honored for actions that the transportation agency said exemplify compassion, professionalism and a deep commitment to public safety.
Bus operators Damian Moody and Melody Stanley were recognized and received a proclamation, according to the Hesperia-based transit authority.
Moody was recognized after he responded to a potentially life-threatening situation on a bus, which involved an unresponsive young man, transit authority officials said.
Moody made repeated attempts to wake the passenger and promptly alerted his manager. He also contacted 911 and provided information to emergency dispatch. First responders arrived on scene and administered Narcan, successfully reviving the young man, who was believed to be a teenager, agency officials stated.
The brand NARCAN, or naloxone, reverses opioid overdoses. It attaches to opioid receptors and reverses and blocks the effects of other opioids, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
“Damian’s composure, empathy, and quick thinking played a vital role in ensuring the young man received immediate medical attention,” agency officials stated.
Stanley was cited for assisting the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department in safely recovering a runaway youth.
Stanley, who operated bus Route 41, identified a reported missing youth on her bus and contacted dispatch.
Stanley followed instructions to remain at Providence St. Mary Medical Center in Apple Valley until deputies arrived to receive the missing juvenile.
Agency officials said Stanley’s calm demeanor and swift action helped deputies intervene without incident.
“These two operators truly embody the heart of VVTA,” CEO Nancie Goff said. “Their willingness to go above and beyond—whether responding to a medical emergency or assisting law enforcement—shows how vital our frontline team is to this community.”
Victor Valley Transit Authority Board Chair James Noble echoed the sentiment by saying, “Damian and Melody are shining examples of how public transit professionals are more than just drivers—they’re guardians of our riders. Their dedication and presence of mind under pressure make us proud to have them represent VVTA.”
The proclamations were presented to the bus operators during a recent board meeting attended by agency leadership, board members, and colleagues who celebrated the duo’s courage and compassion.
This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Victor Valley Transit Authority bus drivers honored as heroes
Reporting by Rene Ray De La Cruz, Victorville Daily Press / Victorville Daily Press
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