Stoughton Fire Captain Honored with 'Hero Award' for Response to Boston Marathon Bombings

A Stoughton Firefighter was given given a “Hero Award” in honor of EMS week Monday night at Good Samaritan Medical Center.

Capt. Robert O'Donnell was recognized for his service and quick response during the Boston Marathon bombings. His son, Bobby O'Donnell III, a 2012 Oliver Ames High School graduate, was running in the race and O'Donnell was quick to spring to action as a spectator at the finish line.

According to a press release submitted by Good Samaritan, O'Donnell shared vivid pictures, videos and audio tapes from the finish line Monday night. He also recounted how daily experiences in the field and lessons learned from Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) trainings and drills helped save lives. 

“After immediately thinking of my son who was running the race, and knowing there was nothing I could do at that moment for him, I ran towards the smoke and immediately started assessing and triaging," O’Donnell said.

“I didn’t see anyone running away from the scene despite the risk of additional devices. I knew if my son were injured, someone would be helping him the same way. We worked together viewing every wounded person as a member of our family.”

O'Donnell was presented the award with his son by his side. Richard Herman, MD, Chief of Emergency Medicine at Good Samaritan was the presenter. 

In part it read:

“Good Samaritan recognizes Capt. Robert O’Donnell EMT-P, RN for attending to the medical needs of the hurt and wounded with compassion and respect…We commemorate Capt. O’Donnell’s for his exemplary skills, judgment and individual dedication to providing medical care under the most chaotic and severe circumstances.  We thank Capt. O’Donnell and honor him for his bravery and impactful presence at the Boston Marathon on that fateful day.  We ask our colleagues to celebrate his heroism and service and to follow his exceptional leadership example.  Thank you, Capt. O’Donnell.  We are proud to call you a colleague, a leader, a friend and a hero.”