Sheridan “Jayson” Dimayuga, a TSA Officer at Ketchikan International Airport in Alaska, was checking in for his flight from Anchorage to Las Vegas for his two-week training at TSA Academy West when he very possibly saved a baby’s life.
Dimayuga was traveling with a fellow trainee, assisting her with her luggage at the Alaska Airlines check-in area, when he saw a potential disaster unfolding right in front of him.
“One side of the weighing scale was vacant, when I noticed feet sticking out,” said Dimayuga.
Luckily, Dimayuga was keenly aware of the situation and his surroundings. He noticed a baby all alone near a checked baggage belt playing around while his parents were distracted. The baby climbed onto the belt headed for the tunnel.
Dimayuga grabbed the baby’s feet before it was too late.
“As I realized it was a baby, I got the attention of the airline staff on the other side of the weighing scale, telling them to stop the belt so I could grab the kid. I stayed with him because he continued to attempt to go back to the belt.”
Had the baby continued down the belt, serious injury or even death could have resulted
“Dimayuga’s actions exemplified situational awareness. He acted exactly as we hope our trainees would in such situations,” said TSA Academy West Associate Director Tiaja Pauls. “I am extremely grateful for Jayson’s courage, compassion and quick thinking in taking immediate action. When I spoke with him to personally thank him, he remained humble and did not view his actions as something to boast about.”
Dimayuga was unassuming about the incident.
“Helping someone is a simple thing,” he said. “Having kids of my own, parental instincts kicked in.”
One thing is certain – Dimayuga’s quick thinking and decisive actions helped avert a catastrophe.
“I am incredibly proud of Jayson for his heroic actions,” said Alaska TSA Federal Security Director Peter Duffy. “His quick thinking and situational awareness possibly saved a child's life, exemplifying the highest standards of our mission. His actions remind all of us of the profound impact one person can have. We are honored to have him on our team.”
By Joseph Cosgriff, TSA Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, and Mike Frandsen, TSA Strategic Communications & Public Affairs