(left to right) USFWS Midwest Region Deputy Directory Charlie Wooley, DeSoto NWR staffers George Oliver and Susan Cooper and Regional Director Robyn Thorson present Cooper with the Exemplary Service Award for her action to save coworker Oliver. - USFWS photo.

DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge employee Susan Cooper was given the Exemplary Service Award, in recognition for her prompt decision and quick action resulting in saving the life of another.  On September 11, 2007 Susan saw another employee in trouble some distance away.  She immediately rushed to him and attempted to stop a severely bleeding injury.  She then called for help and kept control of the situation until he was flown to the hospital.  If Susan had not acted quickly, decisively, and correctly and with disregard for herself, a life would have been lost that day.  The award was presented at the refuge's 50th anniversary celebration by Region 3 Regional Director Robyn Thorson.