by David Chapman
Staff Writer
On a routine drive through Arlington last February, “not in a billion years” did USS Farragut Sailor Juan Gallegos anticipate the events that unfolded after he pulled over to assist an off-duty police officer who was chasing a suspect on foot.
“I just pulled over and thought I’d help by tackling the guy (suspect),” said Gallegos, who joined the Navy in early 2000. “I knew something was wrong.”
Instead, before he could do much, the suspect — 18 year-old Joel Abner — turned around and opened fire on the officer, Jared Reston.
“I just froze,” said Gallegos of his reaction.
Reston returned gunfire and killed Abner, but had been shot several times himself.
That’s when Gallegos called 911 to report an officer down and stayed with Reston until his partner arrived, who was followed soon after by medical personnel. Though Gallegos said it was just a minute before Reston’s partner arrived, it felt much, much longer.
“It felt like an eternity,” said Gallegos.
Reston survived and was honored as the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office “Officer of the Year” in 2008 while Gallegos received recognition for his civilian actions Thursday during JSO’s monthly awards and recognition ceremony at the Police Memorial Building.
“I just wish I could have done more to help him (Reston),” said Gallegos, “but I am thankful to be recognized.”
Gallegos hasn’t seen or spoken to Reston since the incident — he missed Reston’s ceremony due to Naval obligations — but said he was happy to help in any way he could.
While the Miami native and 10-year Navy veteran has seen action abroad while on duty in places like South America and the Caribbean, he never expected to see it in his own backyard.
“Never this close to home,” he said.
Many members of JSO pulled Gallegos aside to personally thank him for the efforts and Sheriff John Rutherford echoed the sentiment during his introduction and explanation of Gallegos’ award.
“We all appreciate your assistance and your bravery,” said Rutherford, who went on to say Reston might not have survived had it not been for Gallegos’ actions.
Gallegos said that he respects the efforts and duties of JSO and police forces and could one day join their ranks once his commitment to the Navy is complete. His next tour of duty begins in early 2010.
Like the other award and recognition recipients during the ceremony — including promotions, years of service awards and special honors — Rutherford asked Gallegos if he had any family present he’d like to be recognized. When Gallegos said no, Rutherford corrected him.
“Well, you’ve got JSO family (present) now.”
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