Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam and Police Chief Sterling Owen today awarded the Life Saving Award to Officer Doyle Lee. Officer Lee has been with the Knoxville Police Department since 1999.

Chief Owen said that on September 13, 2004, Officer Lee was working on the night shift as a Field Training Officer for Officer James Lockmiller. While eating lunch, Officer Lockmiller suddenly stood up unable to say anything and in obvious distress.

Officer Lockmiller was able to give the international sign of a chocking victim by putting his hands up around his throat. Without hesitation Officer Lee jumped up and performed the Heimlich maneuver on Officer Lockmiller. After three pumps from Officer Lee's hands, the food was dislodged allowing Officer Lockmiller to breath again. Chief Owen said, "Officer Lee exhibited quick thinking and calm reasoning that saved the life of Officer Lockmiller. And for that this department, the victim's family members and this entire community are grateful for Officer Lee's heroic actions."

Officer Lee will receive a signed certificate from the Mayor and Chief along with a free dinner from Bayou Bay Seafood House.