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Courtesy photo Highlands County Sheriff's Sgt. Scott Williams (center) received the Award of Valor from Sheriff Susan Benton for helping save the life of Robert Tillman last September while off duty. With Williams is (from left) Heidi Hayes with Anytime Fitness, Tillman and his wife Glendora and Ricky Hayes, also with Anytime Fitness.

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published: Friday, January 25, 2013

Life-saving action prompts Award of Valor

Special to the News-Sun

SEBRING - Highlands County Sheriff Susan Benton presented Sergeant Richard "Scott" Williams with a Valor Award on Wednesday for his actions last September that ultimately saved the life of a Highlands County resident. The Award of Valor is the second highest award presented by the Highlands County Sheriff's Office and is based on a direct display of courage that ultimately saved a life, prevented a serious crime that preserved public safety or the apprehension of a person who has committed a serious crime with violent overtones.

On Sept. 26, 2012 Williams was off duty and working out at the Anytime Fitness Facility in Avon Park. During his workout Williams observed another patron, Robert Tillman, collapse to the floor. Williams immediately went to the aid of Tillman and found he was not breathing and was turning blue.

According to Nell Hayes, HCSO public information officer, staff summoned emergency medical personnel while Williams began CPR. He continued CPR for approximately seven minutes until emergency medical personnel arrived. Tillman was transported to a medical facility for further treatment.

Medical personnel confirmed that he was in a life threatening condition but was eventually stabilized at the hospital. According to a family representative, Tillman is still in the recovery process, however he is progressing.

Details of this case indicate the swift action by Williams was instrumental in saving Tillman's life. Tillman's wife, Glendora, refers to Williams as their "angel", however Williams says he's no hero and would have done this for anyone, Hayes said.

During the Sheriff's Office Quarterly Recognition Ceremony on Jan. 23, Benton presented Williams with a Valor pin to display on his uniform, a plaque and a Document of Facts detailing his heroism. Benton said, "Thank you Sgt. Williams for your immediate response to a citizen in need; your practice of our core values of professionalism and integrity saved a life."