While covering a route, Field Trip Driver Ernest Vannorsdell from Location #20438 in Hesperia, CA found himself in an emergency situation. After hearing screams, Mr. Vannorsdell pulled over and secured his bus. He walked to the back of the bus where he found a student holding his throat, choking. He immediately performing the Heimlich Maneuver until a piece of candy dislodged from the student’s throat. When the student acknowledged he was ok, Mr. Vannorsdell returned to the driver’s seat and continued the route. The next day, the location received a call from the student’s parent praising Mr. Vannorsdell for saving her son’s life. When asked about his heroism, Mr. Vannorsdell simply stated, “I was just doing what I have been trained to do.” In September, Dave Onley, Superintendent for Hesperia Unified School District, publically acknowledge Mr. Vannorsdell at a school board meeting thanking him for ensuring the future of one of his students. “Ernest is truly a ‘Superman’ in my eyes,” said Location Manager Darby Chaffin. “He is a great person and a great driver. I am so proud to have him on my team. He truly is dedicated to our students.”
