In a heartfelt ceremony, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) gathered to honor the courageous actions of six employees during a Lifesaving Awards event held on Tuesday, Dec. 10. This uplifting occasion celebrated the dedication and bravery of Troopers who risked their lives to save others, with a special focus on the profound impact of their training, preparedness and heroism.
Among the attendees was one of the lives saved, Mr. James McLain, along with his family, whose presence served as a poignant reminder of the importance of the service provided by ALEA and first responders everywhere.
"We were told that I possibly did not have a pulse for 16 minutes or more," said McLain during the ceremony. "It was the CPR that was given that kept blood moving."
McLain was referring to the incident that occurred on Sunday, September 1, when Recruiting Coordinator and Public Affairs Officer, Senior Trooper Joshua Thompson, observed the 2025 Dodge Ram pickup McLain was driving, veer off the road and crash into a tree on Berryhill Road in Milton, Fla. Thompson, who was off duty at the time and traveling in his personal vehicle, immediately stopped to assist. McLain had suffered a medical emergency while driving and was found unresponsive and without a pulse. Sr. Trooper Thompson coordinated with a Deputy from the Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Office to remove McLain from the vehicle and utilize an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Demonstrating exemplary emergency response skills, Sr. Trooper Thompson delivered a successful shock with the AED and initiated CPR, performing chest compressions until Emergency Medical Services (EMS) arrived. His decisive actions undoubtedly provided McLain with the crucial treatment he needed.
"I don't know how long, Mr. Thompson, you kept going but they say you were diligent." McLain continued. "I know without that fast response, without the no hesitation acts, there's not a chance I would have made it."
McLain was airlifted to Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola, where he received medical care for 30 days before being released. On Dec. 10, McLain was able to travel from his hometown of Kenner, Louisiana to Montgomery to officially meet Sr. Trooper Thompson and personally express his gratitude.
Five other ALEA Troopers were honored for equally outstanding professionalism and skills displayed through heroic acts that saved the lives of others. Director of ALEA's Department of Public Safety (DPS), Colonel Jonathan Archer, highlighted each remarkable incident during the ceremony.
Senior Troopers Jacob Manning and Kenny Wade were honored for their efforts on October 16, when they responded to a distress call regarding a capsized vessel in Perdido Bay in Baldwin County. The two officers, both assigned to ALEA's Marine Patrol Division in the Southern District, quickly responded to rescue four individuals, two adults and two children, who were in the water and showing signs of hypothermia. Their quick actions and professionalism ensured that all individuals were brought to safety, demonstrating the exceptional commitment of ALEA to protect and serve.
Senior Trooper Chad Wynn, also assigned to the Marine Patrol Division in the Southern District, received accolades for his remarkable response to a vessel in distress on June 7. Upon receiving a call from Baldwin County 911 about a fuel leak and three people who had fallen overboard approximately six miles south of Mullet Point in Mobile Bay, Trooper Wynn swiftly arrived on the scene. Despite the gravity of the situation, with only one individual wearing a life jacket, Trooper Wynn safely rescued all three individuals who were exhausted but unharmed, showcasing the diligent training and preparedness of ALEA personnel.
From the Northern District of ALEA's Marine Patrol Division, Senior Trooper Chad Dyer, received a Lifesaving Award for his exceptional bravery on October 12. Responding to an emergency call near the Wheeler Dam on Wilson Lake in Lauderdale County, Trooper Dyer faced a perilous situation when a fishing boat overturned due to a failed trolling motor, drawing the vessel into the Dam's generators. With unwavering determination, Trooper Dyer conducted a thorough search that ultimately led to the trapped victims below the dam. His critical decision to contact the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) to halt hydroelectric generation was crucial in mitigating risks to both the victims and himself, affirming the vital role of law enforcement in ensuring public safety.
In addition to the Lifesaving Awards, Senior Trooper Jordan Seahorn, who is assigned to ALEA's Highway Patrol Division - Sheffield Post, a Certificate of Commendation for his extraordinary investigative efforts during a traffic stop. On Wednesday, October 16, at approximately 11 a.m., Senior Trooper Seahorn, along with his K-9 partner, Bella, conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 22, near mile marker 4, westbound in Marion County. Upon further investigation, approximately six ounces of marijuana packaged for sale, a package of mushrooms, two loaded semi-automatic Glock pistols with extended magazines, and approximately $12,000 in U.S. currency were discovered. One of the passengers had the pistols concealed in the floorboard area at his feet and was found to be a convicted felon and a certain person forbidden to possess a pistol. All four occupants of the vehicle were from Memphis, Tenn., and were placed under arrest.
ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor closed the ceremony by thanking all of the awardees, special guests and their families, emphasizing the importance of the support and sacrifice they all make to protect and serve the State of Alabama.