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Sultan N. Abassy

Transportation Engineering Technician

Department of Transportation

7/20/2023

Special Service Award (Silver)

Sultan N.  Abassy
On July 20, 2023, at 1:40 a.m., Transportation Engineering Technician Sultan Abassy was on his way to a job site for a scheduled concrete pour. Upon entering the southbound Highway 55 East Dyer Road on-ramp in Santa Ana, Mr. Abassy noticed the scene of an accident with a badly damaged motorcycle lying down in the gore area. While observing the sight, he saw a man about 50 feet further south who appeared to be the motorcyclist, dressed in all black, lying motionless across the #4 traffic lane. Mr. Abassy sprang to action, parking the state-issued truck, turning the rotator safety lights on, and immediately calling 911. Being first aid certified and with some medical background, Mr. Abassy detected a faint pulse and checked the unconscious motorcyclist carefully for any major injuries or bleeding, without changing his position. He stayed with the motorcyclist and as he regained consciousness, tried to keep him calm while assuring him help was on the way. About 20 minutes later, still waiting for first responders, the motorcyclist began to roll from being face down onto his side. It was then that Mr. Abassy saw the man’s face was purple. His helmet strap had tightened under his chin, and he was choking. Mr. Abassy rapidly loosened the strap and the motorcyclist started to breathe, his face color changing back to normal; however, he could not talk due to his facial and mouth injuries. While waiting for emergency response to arrive, the 911 dispatcher recommended Mr. Abassy leave the scene as it was unsafe for him to remain there in the lane, but he refused and persisted in providing aid to the motorcyclist. CHP arrived on the scene, closing all southbound lanes, while first responders provided care. The State of California takes great pride in presenting the Silver Medal of Valor to California Department of Transportation, Transportation Engineering Technician Sultan Abassy for his heroic service extending above and beyond the normal call of duty.