(Tillamook, OR) – On the evening of January 6, 2025, at the City Council meeting the Tillamook Police Department took time to honor a true hero in our community. Joe Steiger was presented with the prestigious Life Saving Award by Chief Nick Troxel and Officer Tim Saddler for his remarkable courage, quick thinking, and selflessness in saving a life on November 22, 2024.
Chief Troxel addressed the gathering with heartfelt words: “Good evening, Mayor, members of the City Council, honored guests, Senator Weber, and members of our community. Tonight, it is my great privilege to stand before you to recognize an extraordinary act of bravery and selflessness that occurred in our community.”
Chief Troxel continued, “The Life Saving Award is not given lightly; it represents actions that have had a profound impact on the life of another person. Joe Steiger exemplifies the highest values of courage, compassion, and quick thinking.”
On November 22, 2024, Joe Steiger demonstrated exceptional bravery and decisiveness during a life-threatening emergency. A person at Fred Meyer in Tillamook, had become unconscious and was not breathing. Joe immediately called for help, secured and set up an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), and assisted with CPR efforts. His swift and effective actions, in coordination with other first responders, led to the individual’s heartbeat and breathing being restored.
Officer Saddler highlighted the significance of Joe’s efforts: “Joe’s actions directly resulted in saving the life of another human being. This act of heroism is a testament to his character and commitment to the well-being of others.”
As the community applauded, Chief Troxel and Officer Saddler presented the award to Joe Steiger, which reads:
Presented to Joe Steiger for Saving the Life of another Human on November 22, 2024. Presented this 6th day of January 2025.
A group photo was then taken, featuring Joe Steiger alongside several of the first responders who played a part in the life-saving effort at Fred Meyer’s that evening.
Chief Troxel concluded the ceremony with a powerful reminder: “Joe, your actions on that day remind us all of the power of human kindness and bravery. You have made a mark on the life you saved and on our community as a whole. On behalf of the City of Tillamook, we thank you and commend you for your heroism.”
The Police Department is honored to celebrate Joe Steiger and the extraordinary good that exists within the Tillamook community.