NEW SHARON – A Maine State Police trooper and former Franklin County deputy has been recognized with the “Outstanding Contribution to Law Enforcement Award” for quick thinking that helped save a New Sharon man’s life.

The Maine Chiefs of Police Association gave Aaron Turcotte of New Sharon the award earlier this month at a conference in South Portland.

Turcotte was on staff at the Maine Criminal Justice Academy teaching basic law enforcement when he took an overtime shift with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department back on April 22, 2006.

He signed on an hour earlier than the shift began when he heard a rescue call go out from dispatch about 8 a.m. that a person was having a possible heart attack on Intervale Road in New Sharon, not too far from his home.

Robert Nichols Sr. had been flying his paraglider near his property. After landing in a field he was stricken with a heart attack and collapsed. Nichols’ son Nick, who was at the scene, initiated cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Turcotte, who said he normally doesn’t respond to medical calls, decided to go and was the first emergency responder there. He knew it was a possible heart attack, Turcotte said, and he grabbed the portable automatic defibrillator from his cruiser and ran to help the fallen man.

He shocked Nichols and got his heart back to its regular rhythm, Turcotte said.

There were many factors involved in Nichols’ survival, he said.

“It was a real good effort” on everybody’s part, including Robert Nichols’ will to live, Turcotte said. Medical transport and hospital care also was important.

“It was a good chain of services,” he said.

He was surprised to learn he was to receive the award, Turcotte said.

“It’s humbling to know I was getting an award. It’s just part of what we do … to help someone,” Turcotte said. “I’m just glad I was there and able to help.”

Originally from East Millinocket, Turcotte started his law enforcement career in 2001 with the Rangeley Police Department. He then took a job with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department and then moved on to become a state trooper.

His former boss, Sheriff Dennis Pike, in cooperation with State Police Lt. Dale Lancaster, put Turcotte up for the award.

He did an excellent job, Pike said.

“Aaron assessed the situation and ultimately saved Mr. Nichols’ life,” Pike said.

Medical personnel on the scene said that Turcotte’s timely response and knowledge of the use of the defibrillator were key factors in saving Robert Nichols’ life, a letter of recognition from the chiefs’ association states.

“Your dedication to service and professionalism under extreme stress are a tremendous reflection upon yourself and the Franklin County’s Sheriff’s Department,” the letter states.

“The citizens of Maine and members of the law enforcement profession are extremely proud of your efforts and accomplishment,” it states. “Our thanks for a job well done.”