(The Hoot News photo by J. Romano)

Members of the community came out in force Tuesday night for the Columbia City Council meeting to join in recognizing a city police officer for his selfless actions to save a local woman.

Columbia City Officer Nick Thomas, above at center, arrived at the meeting unaware of his purpose in being there, but was surprised with CCPD’s Life Saving Award. Police Chief Gary Parrett, at right, and Deputy Chief Christopher Anderson, at left.

In March, Thomas administered CPR, on a local woman until medics arrived. Aided by Whitley County Sheriff’s Deputy Wayne Smith, Thomas used an AED device to administer a recommended shock to the patient’s chest.

The woman’s husband was among those in attendance for the meeting, offering heartfelt words of praise to Thomas for saving his wife’s life. He added that she is expected to make a full recovery.

“These actions are indicative of Columbia City Police Officers,” stated Columbia City Police Chief Gary Parrett. “We are proud of him.”