HEALDTON — In a display of exemplary service without regard to his own welfare, Healdton Police Officer Scott Alexander put his life on the line to save another Saturday in Whisky Creek just off of State Highway 76.

“It was just, honestly, it was just another day on the job,” Alexander said. “I am here to help people. The man was in need and that’s my job.”

Alexander responded to a call about a man falling into the creek and when he arrived, he found that a Healdton man, Kevin Lewis, had fallen into the creek from his brother Brian Lewis and his son.

“They said they were checking the water level,” Healdton Police Chief Shannon Davis said. “He was standing on a rock and the rock give way and he went into the creek.”

Alexander worked his way through some brush and located Lewis, who was along the north embankment with his head just above water hanging onto a small branch. Lewis told Alexander his back was hurt and he couldn’t feel his legs. Alexander was informed the fire department was on its way and removed his equipment and uniform shirt when Lewis lost his grip and went under the water. He resurfaced as the current pushed him further down the creek.

Lewis was struggling to keep his head above water as Alexander removed his boots and entered the water.

Alexander reported it was 100 yards before he was able to secure Lewis against the bank.

“It was a combination of treading and swimming,” Alexander said of his effort. “Due to the bottom of the creek, I was able to tread through.”

When he caught up, Alexander reported Lewis’ body began to go stiff and he began losing consciousness. Alexander was able to pull Lewis upstream after providing aid for shock.

“We were still in the creek, the embankments are pretty steep,” Alexander said, noting Lewis is not a small man.

Healdton Fire Chief Kevin Marshall called out to Alexander and with the help of several firefighters, a human chain was formed as Marshall grabbed Lewis’ hand and held on until a rope was tossed down to Alexander who used it to secure Lewis. Lewis was pulled up and secured to a backboard. He was transferred to an ambulance and taken to Mercy Hospital Ardmore for treatment.

During an interview with Davis Monday, Lewis reflected that he felt he was going to die in Whisky Creek.

“The water was over the officer’s head and the victim’s head,” Davis said. “He (Alexander) went in there without a second thought and saved him. This is something to be proud of, an officer going above and beyond the call of duty without a second’s hesitation.”

Davis said Alexander has been with the department for over a year and recently graduated from the CLEET Academy. Alexander also served as interim police chief prior to Davis’ hiring. Alexander also saw Lewis Monday and was able to visit after the near death experience.

“He gave me a hug,” Alexander said. “He really appreciates me.”

Healdton City Manager Herb Collier said Alexander would be honored during the first council meeting in December. But for Alexander, the greatest honor has come in saving a life.

“He (Lewis) started tearing up when I saw him today and I’m sure he is thinking about what could have happened,” Davis said. “They don’t train us for that. He is grateful to be alive and thankful for Scott’s actions.”