A California girl is being honored for helping to find and save a missing man with Alzheimer’s disease. The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department presented a Medal of Distinguished Service to six-year-old Kallie Helton for what they call a “heroic act.”
On Memorial Day, the Sheriff’s Department’s Search and Rescue team was looking for 71-year-old Tom Ashton, who had disappeared in the hills of Ramona. The team used a helicopter and a drone to search the area, but because the brush was so thick, they couldn’t spot Ashton.
But Kallie wanted to help find him, so she went walking with binoculars around the rugged terrain, calling Tom’s name. He heard her yelling and called back for help. He was found, treated for dehydration and exposure, thanks to this little girl.
“In my opinion she undoubtedly played a pivotal role in saving his life,” said Lieutenant Michael McNeil. “Quite frankly, she did something that I am not confident most people, most adults would do.”
Source:CBS 8
Photo: Getty Images
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