Rathdrum police officers Scott Kennedy Jr. and Kenneth Short know what it means to answer the call of duty.

In October 2022, the two responded to a man in his late 50s who had passed out in his driveway after suffering a sudden cardiac arrest.

Upon arrival, Short began administering CPR while Kennedy assisted in setting up the automated external defibrillator and attaching it to the man’s chest. Kennedy administered the first shock from the AED, then switched off with Short to continue administering CPR until Northern Lakes Fire District arrived to provide emergency medical service.

“The AED actually advised a shock, which is rare, and likely played a significant role in reviving the male,” Short said.

For their actions, Kennedy and Short earned Life Saving Awards, which were recently presented to them.

A Life Saving Award is given when an officer takes actions that directly save a life, Short said. Award recipients must meet specific criteria set by the American Police Hall of Fame and Museum.

“Rathdrum is a great community full of amazing people, and I am glad that on that day I was able to make a positive difference for the community,” Short said.

Kennedy said that serving the Rathdrum community has been his “greatest honor and privilege.”

Kennedy’s father, Officer Scott Kennedy Sr., received the same award during his career.

“Not only (is there) pride in a job well done, and the knowledge that a family was able to keep a husband and father due to our combined efforts with EMS, but also a sense of accomplishment having lived up to the family legacy in a way,” Kennedy said.

Kennedy has been with Rathdrum PD for about seven years, and Short has been for about six years.

“I’m so grateful God used me that day to be part of something bigger than myself,” Short said. “I truly believe God healed the man and used the team of RPD and NLFD to bring that man back to life. It’s an amazing feeling knowing the man has a second chance on life for more time with his family and friends.”