It’s my pleasure to share with you the attached media release on behalf of NorthWestern Energy. Yesterday, during an all-company safety meeting, leaders of the company presented Tim MacDonald, a three-year employee with NorthWestern Energy, with the MEA Energy Association Life Sustaining Award for the heroic actions he made to save the life of (then) 82-year-old George Piper in Huron, SD.
On Wednesday June 12th Tim MacDonald of Huron, a three year employee with NorthWestern Energy was awarded the MEA Energy Association Life Sustaining Award for the heroic actions he made to save the life of (then) 82 year old George Piper of Huron. The award was at an all-company safety meeting. Below are the details of the incident.
The Details
In January 2023, Piper took a fall just as MacDonald came around the corner in his NorthWestern Energy vehicle. MacDonald watched him stop, then fall straight back. Though it was icy, it didn’t seem he’d slipped. MacDonald knew something was wrong.
MacDonald turned on the flashers and yellow beacon on his truck and jumped out to find Piper incoherent. When he finally got Piper to speak, he called 911 and gave their location. While they waited for first responders, MacDonald slipped his sweatshirt under his head, covered the man with his jacket and reminded him that help was on the way.
During the awards ceremony on Wednesday, Piper was able to see MacDonald face-to-face for the first time and give him a hug, along with kind words for his help on that cold day.
Tim MacDonald and George Piper MacDonald, Piper and Tricia Davis Northwestern Employee
MacDonald Northwestern gas meter technician
Front photo MacDonald receives the award from Lee Glanzer
