WHEREAS, in April 2024, Dustin Forrester, a hardworking and dedicated custodian at Glade Spring Middle School in Washington County, demonstrated extraordinary poise under pressure when he saved a student's life by coming to his aid while he was choking; and

WHEREAS, while working in the cafeteria during breakfast, Dustin Forrester noticed a student coughing and asked if he was alright; when the student was unable to reply and began grabbing his throat, Dustin Forrester quickly went to the student and applied the Heimlich maneuver, successfully dislodging the food from the student's throat; and

WHEREAS, with two little boys of his own, Dustin Forrester was acutely aware of what was at stake, yet he displayed an exceptional ability to overcome his sense of panic and be the hero that the moment required; and

WHEREAS, Dustin Forrester's actions have rightfully earned him praise both throughout Glade Spring Middle School and by local media outlets and have fostered a bond between himself and the student whose life he saved; and

WHEREAS, Dustin Forrester is an inspiration to all Virginians and an embodiment of the care and concern that educators and school staff across the Commonwealth have for their students; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That Dustin Forrester hereby be commended for his exemplary readiness and heroism in a student's time of greatest need; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Dustin Forrester as an expression of the House of Delegates' admiration for his conduct and appreciation for his service.