The commissioners of West Pierce Fire & Rescue have honored a Lakewood police sergeant who was credited with saving the life of a choking 9-year-old girl last month.

The commissioners presented Sgt. John Fraser with a lifesaving award at their meeting Tuesday night.

Fraser and Lakewood police Lt. Chris Lawler were eating dinner at a teriyaki restaurant the night of Feb. 15 when Fraser jumped from his chair to help the girl, who was holding her throat and choking.

Fraser performed the Heimlich maneuver on her as Lawler called for firefighters. After the fifth try, an object came out of the girl’s mouth. She was able to breath again and was breathing normally by the time firefighters arrived.

“Thank goodness these officers were in the restaurant and knew exactly what to do to help this little girl,” a press release from West Pierce Fire stated.