MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN) — Not many people can say they saved a life, especially a ten and seven-year-old. But, two Clarksville brothers did save a life, and it's one that is extra special to them.
The Schroeder boys can tell you everything about the Cub Scouts.
"It goes lion, tiger, wolf," said William Schroeder, describing the scout rankings.
William and Christopher also have the badges to prove their expertise.
"Swimming, BB gun, archery," said William, pointing to the different badges on his uniform.
"I think 11," said Christopher, referring to the number of badges.
But the most meaningful honor is the one they received at Cub Scout Pack 503's Blue and Gold Banquet; it's called the Medal of Merit. And, they received it for their quick thinking on a day the boys wish never happened. In May 2023, their papa had a heart attack. And it was up to them and nana to help.
"I was a bit nervous and pretty scared," said William, describing what he remembers from that day.
"And he was laying down," Christopher said, describing what his grandpa looked like when the boys saw him.
"What did you think when you saw him laying down," we asked.
"Is he dead?" said Christopher.
Nana, Cathy Schroeder, is a skilled nurse and started CPR.
"He was kinda a gray color....No pulse, no breathing," said Cathy.
Christopher ran outside to flag down the medics.
"I knew that since my grandmother did not tell them the exact address, I should wave my hands for help," said Christopher.
And to nana's surprise, William, 9 years old at the time, helped with CPR.
"William said, 'I can help you.' And he comes right in. He knew exactly where to put his hands, and he was helping to do the chest compressions. And he said, 'don't forget to give him a breathe,'" Cathy said, remembering how her grandson helped save her husband.
"I was confident that my grandpa would be okay," said William. "I tried to help. That's really the first thing that came to mind."
"And you knew what to do. How did you know what to do?" we asked.
"I learned it on a YouTube tutorial," said William.
"I was shocked that he knew that at that age," said Cathy.
And thank goodness he did. At 66, papa was having what's known as the widowmaker heart attack.
"I don't remember hardly anything from that day," said Cliff.
But he doesn't have to. The fact is the people closest to him where there when he needed them most.
"I've never have to give anyone CPR. And for him to understand it and be able to apply it, is just amazing," said Cliff. "I gave him a big hug. Because I understand it had to be very traumatic to have to do that."
After a week in the ICU, Papa is feeling good again, and plans to enjoy another 60 years with his family.