Choking 1st Grader Saved By Long Island 'Hero' School Security Guard

SOUTH HUNTINGTON, NY — Christopher Triquet, a security guard at Oakwood Primary School, saved a choking first grader's life at school in November. He was honored on Dec. 13 by the South Huntington Board of Education.

During a lunch period on Nov. 17, one of the young students in the cafeteria began choking on his lunch, according to the district. The class cafeteria paraprofessional immediately noticed and called over to Triquet for help.

"Those who were in the cafeteria at the time said that without any hesitation, Mr. Triquet took action, quickly and calmly assessed the situation, moved the child out of his seat, and performed the Heimlich Maneuver which dislodged the food from the child’s airway, ultimately saving his life," the district wrote in a news release.

The school board presented Triquet, or "Mr. Chris," as he’s affectionately known at Oakwood, with a proclamation at the recent board meeting.

Those who know and work with Triquet describe him as a "very humble man who shies away from attention." And that was the case during the presentation, the district wrote, with Triquet preferring to let his actions speak louder than his words, telling the assembled crowd a simple "thank you."

Oakwood Principal Annie Michaelian was proud to share the story of Triquet’s heroic deed with the school board.

"Sometimes our greatest heroes walk right alongside us every day," Michaelian said. "I knew it before and I know it now. Anyone who meets him immediately recognizes his professionalism, care, knowledge, and kind heart. Mr. Chris, on behalf of the Oakwood staff, students, and families, we thank you for being Oakwood’s Hero!"