American Red Cross Honors Everyday Hero

Waxahachie High School joins celebration

 

Waxahachie, Texas Feb. 3, 2026] — When emergencies arise, it’s everyday people that make lasting impacts, solidifying themselves as heroes.

 

For his lifesaving efforts, the American Red Cross North Texas Region will recognize James Westbrook, a Waxahachie High School soccer coach, at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 3 on the pitch of Stuart B. Lumpkins Stadium, 200 Indian Drive.

 

Westbrook walked out of a meeting that ran late into the day on Sept. 11, 2024 when he noticed a student choking in the hallway. When he noticed the student, Westbrook immediately took action to clear the student’s airway, performing the Heimlich maneuver for over a minute. As the student began going limp, Westbrook was finally able to dislodge the food that was blocking the student’s airway.

 

Due to Westbrook’s quick response and heroic action, Waxahachie High School avoided a tragedy.

 

“Teachers like Coach Westbrook exemplify what it means to be a teacher,” Karen Holt, executive director of the East Texas American Red Cross chapter, said. “Thank you for your dedication to protecting and caring for your students day-in and day-out.”

 

Originating in 1911, the Certificate of Merit is bestowed upon Red Cross trained individuals who have no obligation to respond to an emergency but do so anyways. Awards recipients in its 100+ years have been lifeguards, police, fire fighters and everyday citizens.

 

“The Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action is given to individuals, like James who step up in an emergency situation and help save or sustain a life,” Holt said. “These individuals exemplify the mission of the Red Cross to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies and are to be commended for their willingness to help others in distress.”

 

Learn to Save Lives

Red Cross training gives people the knowledge and skills to act in an emergency and save a life. A variety of online, blended (online and in-person skills session) and classroom courses are available at redcross.org/takeaclass.

 

Nominate Someone

People can nominate and recognize an individual or group of individuals who have used the skills and knowledge learned in an American Red Cross Training Services course to help save or sustain a life.

 

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s donated blood supply; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on X at @RedCrossNTX.