LANSING. Michigan State Police (MSP) Director Col. Peter C. Munoz is pleased to announce that Tpr. Matthew Djerf and Tpr. Dieter Kochan of the Calumet Post are recipients of the MSP Lifesaving Award. They are credited with performing significant actions resulting in the saving of a life.
On June 21, 2009, Djerf and Kochan responded to a residence where it was reported a male was suffering a possible heart attack. Upon arrival, the troopers immediately began administering first aid including the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). After a few minutes, the man's pulse returned and he began breathing. The man was then transported to the hospital.
Upon reviewing the circumstances of this incident, the MSP Board of Awards concluded the quick actions and knowledge of first aid techniques by Djerf and Kochan saved the man's life.
Djerf enlisted with the department in 1995, graduating as a member of the 113th Trooper Recruit School. Prior to his assignment at the Calumet Post, he served at the Negaunee Post.
Kochan enlisted with the department in 2008, graduating as a member of the 121st Trooper Recruit School. After graduation he was assigned to the Calumet Post.