Two U.S. Marines, two U.S. Sailors and a Philippine Marine came to the assistance of a local Filipino motorcyclist who was pinned underneath his vehicle as a result of an accident in Ternate, Cavite, Philippines, around 3 p.m. Tuesday.
The Marines that responded to the injured local national, Bryan S. Rodriguez, were part of 3D Marine Expeditionary Brigade, deployed to the Philippines in support of exercise KAMANDAG 2.
The Community Health Engagement personnel were returning from a meeting at Amisa Medical Mission when they saw a crowd gathered around the accident. Lt. Maundo Lee, Medical Officer, 3d Marine Logistics Group, Lt. Brian Bonzo, Critical Care Nurse, 3d Medical Battalion, Capt. Mark Hanford, Civil Affairs Team Leader, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Sgt. Nicholas Elston, Civil Affairs Noncommissioned Officer, Marine Forces Reserve, stopped their vehicle and rushed to help Rodriguez and apply first aid while Captain Rodilson Malic, Civil Affairs Chief, Philippine Marine Corps Civil Military Operations Command, provided security.
“We noticed that an overturned trike and a motorcycle had gotten in an accident, with a large crowd staring,” said Capt. Mark Hanford. “As soon as we passed the overturned trike I asked our driver to turn around so we could help.”
Bonzo and Lee immediately began applying first aid and stabilizing Rodriguez while another officer directed traffic on the busy street.
“I moved the wrecked motorcycle out of the way and asked the crowd that was gathering to make room for the Navy Medical professionals,” said Hanford. “I asked Captain Malic to help with translating and to get the onlookers to call for police and an ambulance,” he said.
Upon examination, the U.S. service members assessed that Rodriguez had sustained a head injury and the service members stabilized his spine using a spinal board.
Shortly afterwards, a Barangay government vehicle arrived to transport Rodriguez to the San Lorenzo Hospital. As he was departing, Rodriguez was alert and responsive to commands. He is in fair condition after being discharged from San Lorenzo Hospital in Quezon City Tuesday evening.
Rodriguez said he was very thankful for the U.S. and Philippine service members’ assistance. He said it was not his time to go so that he could continue to take care of his son.
Exercises such as KAMANDAG 2 increase our ability to work together in response to crises across the military spectrum, from counterterrorism to natural disasters, in order to accomplish the mission, support the local population and help alleviate human suffering.
14 comments
Way to go!! Navy/Marine Corps team is always there to help.
Way to go Marines. Great story
Have two friends from childhood that are Marines and I love they share this news letter with me. Both are active in their communities and are great examples of how we all should be. This story is a classic example of what is a Marine. They are trusted and they are well respected by the American public. Great story……I am so impressed as I am all the time.
I think the Navy/Marine Corps Medal citation qualifies for this action.Just my opinion. Harry
Well said Sgt. McKean . . . Semper Fi Mac!
As Robert McKean said “in the best tradition of the Corps”, and I would add, in cooperation with a service member from our partner nation. I had the pleasure of training with our brothers in the Philippine Marine Corps, and came away a better Marine for the experience. What happened here doesn’t surprise me.
It is nice to hear a story that is positive news. Normally the only news we get is negative and on the front page of the newspapers across the country and around the world. News like this is on the back pages and no headlines. Well Done my brothers.
My Company Commander at San Diego, California, Recruit Training, was a Philippine U.S.Navy Chief Petty Officer, Seabee Heavy Equipment Operator. We even had two Philippine Nationals in our company, who had enlisted in the U.S. Navy. We have a long tradition of mutual cooperation, may it continue despite current politics.
In the best traditions of the Corps. R. McKean, Sgt E-5 USMC 1966-69
Yes Gunny Fulton,,,,semperfi !!
Semper Fi to those Marines and Sailors that aided the accident victim. They see what needs to be done, and get involved and assist in an emergency situation. Thank goodness the two naval personal were medical officers. The young victim was very lucky to get such qualified care that quickly. This retired Marine says Bravo and job well done!
God sent His angels to tend over Bryan Rodriguez – yes, Marines are angels too !!! Heroes wherever they are !
This is a perfect example of how committed the Marine Corps is to providing assistance in a time of need. Bryan Rodriguez was so lucky that those Marines happened to come by when he was in such need of help. As the widow of a former Marine severely wounded in Vietnam, I am so proud of the Marines.
As always, the Marines Corps is there in any given situation…outstanding story…