By Karen Gleason
The 830 Times
Three Del Rio firefighters received letters of commendation during Tuesday’s city council meeting for saving the life of a newborn baby earlier this month.
The commendations were presented to the Del Rio Fire Department (DRFD) Engine #1 crew by DRFD Chief David Harrison.
Harrison told the council, “I’m here tonight to recognize Engineer Hector Garcia, Firefighter Randy Rohde and Firefighter Jesus Vasquez with a letter of commendation.”
Harrison then read the letter of commendation.
Harrison said, “On Wednesday night, July 1st, 2026, a response was made to a local prenatal care, labor and delivery clinic, where a female was going into labor. Before the arrival of an ambulance, the crew of Engine #1 made contact with the physician and the mother of the baby, who reported that the newborn was not breathing.
“Engineer Garcia made contact with the infant who was light blue in the face and presented reddish-pink skin in the extremities. Engineer Garcia began a rescue breathing technique on the baby, who within a few minutes, began to cry.
“The infant was stabilized and left in the care of the physician attending to the patient’s mother. I believe these efforts put forth by this crew should not go unnoticed. Through their quick response to this incident, a life was saved.
“On behalf of the City of Del Rio Fire Department and the citizens of our community, I would like to commend you for your actions that evening. Your dedication to providing such excellent care clearly demonstrates your commitment to carrying out the Del Rio Fire Department’s continued proud reputation of excellence and public service,” Harrison finished.
Mayor Al Arreola then led the council and audience in a round of applause for the firefighters and posed for a photo with the trio and their supervisors.
The writer can be reached at delriomagnoliafan@gmail.com.
