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5th grader honored after pulling another student out of the way of a speeding vehicle

It was her quick reaction that may have saved another student's life.
Credit: WTSP

SARASOTA, Fla. — Being chosen to be a Safety Patrol is a big enough honor for many students. One Sarasota fifth grader took that honor to another level when she saved another student's life while on duty. 

Althea Fields was honored for her heroic efforts with the prestigious AAA School Safety Patrol Lifesaving Medal Thursday morning at her school, Gulf Gate Elementary. 

She's one of five students in the United States to receive the award this year, which is given to students who have saved a life while on their post. 

Fields became a fitting recipient of the honor after she pulled a young child and fellow student out of the path of a speeding vehicle.

Credit: WTSP

"Althea is a shining example of the qualities that embody a AAA School Safety Patroller," said Matt Nasworthy, Florida Public Affairs Director for AAA. "She cares about her fellow students and takes her duty to protect others seriously."

Every year, the national review board selects the year's recipients from a group of nominations.

The AAA School Safety Patrol program is the largest safety patrol program in the world, with more than 679,000 children participating at more than 35,000 schools throughout the nation. The program has been working with schools for more than 99 years and provides equipment, such as electric-lime fluorescent belts, nickel plated steel badges, and training for the safety patrollers. 

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