Command Sergeant Major George Hodge III & Master Sergeant Frank Bladen recently were awarded the New York State Medal for Meritorious Service for Heroism by the New York National Guard Adjutant General Major General Raymond Shields for saving the life of Farzad Moussavi.
CITATION
For outstanding meritorious service on 24 June 2017, the New York State Medal
for Meritorious Service for Heroism is awarded to:
MASTER SERGEANT FRANK BLADEN
NEW YORK GUARD
MASTER SERGEANT FRANK BLADEN and SERGEANT MAJOR GEORGE
HODGE Ill were traveling in heavy rain and limited visibility to drill on the morning of
24 June 2017 when they observed a prone figure in the right-hand lane of the Cross-
Bronx expressway. Using Sergeant Major Hodge’s vehicle as a traffic block they
exited their vehicle and determined that figure to be the person of Farzad Moussavi,
whose wounds were life threatening and severe enough to preclude moving him off
the road. His left leg was torn open exposing an open fracture. It was evident that
Moussavi also lost a considerable amount of blood from his injury. After alerting
authorities by phone they applied a tourniquet and field dressing as well as treating
Moussavi for shock and hypothermia.
These actions saved the life of Farzad Moussavi. This action was done at
considerable risk to both Soldiers, from blood borne contagion and the possibility of
a road traffic collision in heavy rain, slippery road conditions and limited visibility on
that morning.
MASTER SERGEANT FRANK BLADE displayed exceptional heroism, disregard
for personal safety and timely, effective treatment to save a stranger’s life. The
actions of these Soldiers reflect the highest traditions of the New York Guard and the
military forces of the state of New York for protection and preservation of human life.
Source: New York Guard
