Arkansas State Parks hosted a special recognition ceremony today at Mather Lodge inside Petit Jean State Park, honoring four individuals whose quick, coordinated actions saved the life of a camper who went into sudden cardiac arrest last month.
Arkansas State Parks Rangers Josh Baker and Levi Koch, former paramedic Ken Ekenseair, and registered nurse Keri Adaire were recognized for performing CPR and using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to revive Mr. Bubba Noakes, who collapsed while visiting the park. Their swift teamwork restored his heartbeat before emergency medical services arrived—actions that ultimately saved his life.
The ceremony was led by Ed Thomas, Law Enforcement Section Chief for Arkansas State Parks, who presented each responder with a Director’s Lifesaving Commendation from Arkansas State Parks Director Shea Lewis. The awards recognized the honorees for their exceptional service, courage, and professionalism.
“Arkansas State Parks Rangers are often the first responders in remote areas where minutes matter,” said Director Shea Lewis. “The professionalism and preparedness shown by Rangers Baker and Koch represent the best of who we are—public servants trained to protect and serve both park visitors and surrounding communities.”
Lewis added that Arkansas State Parks is proud of the dedication, training, and compassion its staff demonstrate every day in service to the public.
Dr. Morshed Morshedi, medical advisor to Arkansas State Parks, emphasized the importance of quick action during cardiac emergencies.
“When Mr. Noakes collapsed, it was the quick recognition and immediate response by friends and bystanders—some trained, some not—that made all the difference,” Dr. Morshedi said. “Their willingness to act before professional help arrived quite literally saved his life.”
Dr. Morshedi noted that sudden cardiac arrest can happen anywhere, at any time, and that early CPR remains one of the strongest predictors of survival.
“You don’t have to be a medical professional to save a life,” he added. “Call 911, place your hands in the center of the chest, and push hard and fast to the beat of ‘Stayin’ Alive.’ That simple act of courage can double or even triple someone’s chance of survival.”
Mr. Noakes, now fully recovered, expressed heartfelt gratitude during the ceremony:
“Thank you, guys. I grew up not 10–15 miles from this state park and spent a lot of time here as a kid. The people here are amazing—the rangers are amazing. I’m so thankful for everyone who was there that day.”
Following the ceremony, Arkansas State Parks hosted a luncheon for the survivor, his family, and the honorees. The event was held as part of Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month, encouraging all Arkansans to learn hands-only CPR and be prepared to act when seconds count.
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