New Jersey Guardsman Rescues Injured Worker

SYRIA - U.S. Army Sgt. Lauren Shalabi was picking up her meal at a market in North East Syria and wasn't expecting chaos but was ready for it. Her daily routine on March 24 was abruptly interrupted when the market owner rushed over to her asking for assistance because one of his workers was severely injured.

Shalabi, an automated logistical specialist assigned to the 250th Brigade Support Battalion, 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, New Jersey Army National Guard, was quick to respond, finding the man with his severely damaged right arm stuck in a generator. She pulled the man from the generator and rendered aid while communicating with her Arabic language skills to stabilize him before moving to a safer location.

A six-year veteran police officer with the Jersey City, New Jersey, Police Department, Shalabi continued to treat the victim while her teammates ran to get help from the medical personnel at the nearest coalition medical facility. When the help arrived, she continued assisting the process as a translator and transported the injured man to the facility for treatment.

"My civilian and military training really came together. Our very own Staff Sgt. Polanco provided an incredible class when responding to any medical emergencies, and as a police officer in Jersey City, I have encountered many gunshot wounds, stabbings and other medical emergencies which require me to learn and act quickly under pressure," said Shalabi. "I feel thankful that I could help another person. Thanks to our good team at Role 1, this man has fully recovered and can work again."

Shalabi received an Army Commendation Medal from her command at the 250th BSB for her heroic actions.

"Sgt. Shalabi represents the best of the 250th BSB, 44th IBCT, and the New Jersey Army National Guard," said Lt. Col. James Brettell, 250th BSB commander. "She exemplifies the capability that part-time National Guard Soldiers bring with them. She used her skills acquired as a Jersey City police officer to undoubtedly save that man's arm, and possibly his life. She was on ground for less than a month and already proved herself a hero. Words can't express how proud I am of her and her actions."