USO of NC's Air Force Service Member of the Year Award

Airman First Class Alysa Yates

Airman First Class Alysa Yates demonstrates a constant commitment to service in uniform and out. Through professionalism and quick actions, Airman First Class Yates has made a positive impact on the community in North Carolina.

During a recent thunderstorm Senior Airman Smith and Airman First Class Alysa Yates were on their way to Raleigh, North Carolina when they noticed smoke coming from a nearby ditch on Edgewood Road in Pikeville, NC. Airman Yates quickly pulled the vehicle over to the side of the road and Senior Airman Smith immediately sprang into action to investigate. In the 8-9-foot ditch was a 67-year-old man laying head down who was trapped under a zero-turn lawnmower that was actively spilling gas onto his face and pooling the ground.

Senior Airman Smith immediately instructed Airman First Class Yates to call 911 while they both assessed the scene for the best way to provide support. Airman First Class Yates was helping to hold the 67-year-old gentleman’s head above the pool of gas filling the ditch to avoid choking and drowning, while Senior Airman Smith removed his shirt and attempted to stop the leaking from the mower. After EMS arrived, Senior Airman Smith and the firefighters on scene were able to lift the Lawnmower off the gentlemen’s body while Airman First Class Yates assisted with an arm to arm body drag of the man from underneath the heavy machine.

Senior Airman Smith and Airman First Class Yates assisted in moving the man onto a backboard by sliding it underneath with extreme caution due to the angle of the ditch and the severity of pain he was experiencing trying to move his body. Both Airman and three firefighters extracted the injured man and transferred care to the on-scene EMS unit for further evaluation and transport. The actions of Airman First Class Alysa Yates were instrumental in saving the gentleman’s life and preventing further injury. These traits epitomize the core values of the United States Air Force: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do.

The USO of North Carolina is honored to present you with The United States Air Force Service Member of the Year Award for your bravery, professionalism, and willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty.