Serviceman helps rescue man after he faints in front of pharmacy

A serviceman from the Civil-Military Cooperation and Psychological Operations (CIMIC/PSYOPS) Centre, operating under the Martin-based Special Operations Forces, today helped rescue the life of an elderly man after he fainted in front of a pharmacy in Madunice.

According to his account, none of the bystanders responded to the situation and they all stepped back, most probably out of fear of coronavirus. Having attended the Combat Life Saver Course, the serviceman assisted a doctor and pharmacists in giving first aid to the elderly man until the ambulance arrived at the scene.

Defence Minister Peter Gajdoš said: "I am convinced that the armed forces and their members should stand out as examples in this difficult time. That is why I am proud our serviceman acted in a way as each of us should. On behalf of the entire Ministry of Defence, let me say 'Thank You' to him."

As Chief of Defence Gen Daniel Zmeko said, he is immensely pleased to see that if an accident witnessed by even off-duty soldiers occurs, they seize the role of life savers in a responsible and conscientious manner. "In doing so, they make the best of the skills, education and habits they have gained in the professional life. We, soldiers, are part of civil society and I am proud of our soldiers who behave considerately and responsibly," said Gen Zmeko.

To respond to the effects of coronavirus, the SVK Armed Forces have made available up to 500 soldiers, based on the decisions of the Central Crisis Staff and the SVK Cabinet. As part of mixed patrols, they are currently assisting the SVK Police Corps with border checks and the COVID-19 information campaign.

Following the SVK Cabinet's decision to declare an exceptional emergency, the Slovak Armed Forces are ready to deploy additional troops and make available C-27J Spartan airlifters to transport material. The Training Centre Lešť is ready to assist in this emergency as well. Measures have also been taken by the Central Military Hospital (CMH) Ružomberok. Having made the transition to an emergency regime, CMH Ružomberok will now provide only urgent medical care.