Arkansas State Parks hosted a special recognition ceremony today at Mather Lodge inside Petit Jean State Park, honoring four individuals whose quick, coordinated actions saved the life of a camper who went into sudden cardiac arrest last month.
Arkansas State Parks Rangers Josh Baker and Levi Koch, former paramedic Ken Ekenseair, and registered nurse Keri Adaire were recognized for performing CPR and using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to revive Mr. Bubba Noakes, who collapsed while visiting the park. Their swift teamwork restored his heartbeat before emergency medical services arrived—actions that ultimately saved his life.
The ceremony was led by Ed Thomas, Law Enforcement Section Chief for Arkansas State Parks, who presented each responder with a Director’s Lifesaving Commendation from Arkansas State Parks Director Shea Lewis. The awards recognized the honorees for their exceptional service, courage, and professionalism.
“Arkansas State Parks Rangers are often the first responders in remote areas where minutes matter,” said Director Shea Lewis. “The professionalism and preparedness shown by Rangers Baker and Koch represent the best of who we are—public servants trained to protect and serve both park visitors and surrounding communities.”…