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Teen honored for saving younger brother’s life

Posted at 12:16 AM, Jun 20, 2013
and last updated 2013-06-20 00:16:59-04

PRINCE GEORGE COUNTY, Va. (WTVR) - In Prince George County schools, superintendent, Bobby Browder said part of the curriculum in health and physical education classes includes teaching students about CPR, the Heimlich maneuver and First aid.

High school student Garrett Holt remembered learning about the Heimlich maneuver both in the classroom and in Boy Scouts. But Garrett said he never knew those skills would come in handy down the road, when his little brother needed help.

Holt is the oldest of two. He and younger brother Wyatt don't have all the same interests, but still share a brotherly bond.

"I look out for him as much as I can," said Garrett.

Last April, Garrett was at church keeping an eye on his little brother with his friend, Ashley. Wyatt was enjoying a lifesaver candy and running around at the same time.

"A little bit later Wyatt comes up and Ashley looks at him and says Garrett I think he's choking. I looked at him, his eyes got all red, he looked really scared and he couldn't breathe," said Garrett.

Garrett took Wyatt to the bathroom and performed the Heimlich maneuver on him, saving his little brother's life.

"I thought I was going to heaven," said Wyatt. "I thought I was dying."

On Wednesday night, Garrett was honored for saving his brother. He received a lifesaving award at his Boy Scout's court of honor award presentation.

"If anybody was put in a situation where their sibling was having a life or death situation, you'd want to do the right thing and try and save them," said Garrett.