Around The Railroad

Track Supervisor Rescues Stranded Man

May 22, 2009 | 08:45 a.m. CDT

While hyrailing along Arizona's Yuma Subdivision inspecting mainline track, Track Supervisor Rick Chapman discovered a man lying near the siding, too weak to move.

With trains headed toward them in both directions, Chapman knew he didn't have much time.

"I quickly provided him as much first aid as I could, gave him some water and set him under a shaded tree to rest," Chapman said.

Before leaving the scene, Chapman called Customs Border Patrol (CBP) and provided its agents with track miles and milepost numbers so they could easily find the stranded man.

"We work in dreadful heat and it was obvious this individual needed help," Chapman said. "We encounter some pretty unusual situations from time-to-time, and I consider it part of my job to help. If the situation was reversed, I'd think someone would help me, too."

Shortly after CBP arrived, an ambulance took the 64-year-old man to a nearby hospital for treatment, where authorities learned he hadn't had water in four days.

"We always encourage employees to keep their eyes and ears open for anything unusual," said George Slaats, regional director-police. "I have no doubt that Rick saved a man's life and I commend him for taking the actions that he did."

Protect co-workers, company property and customer shipments by calling RMCC at 888-UPRR-COP to report suspicious or criminal activity.