Pictured left to right: Larry Balliet, Billy Rutan, Nick Herman, Tyler Miracle, Jesse Curnow, Brendon Nelson and Pete Lien
RAPID CITY, SD- On December 4, 2025, a contract truck driver was found unresponsive beside his vehicle at the Pete Lien & Sons Rapid City Lime Plant facility.
The driver’s medical emergency prompted a swift and coordinated response from several PLS employees. An effort that ultimately saved a life.Recognizing the severity of the situation, employees from the Rapid City Lime Plant and Stationary Maintenance team immediately initiated emergency protocols. Team members called 911, began CPR, and deployed an automated external defibrillator (AED) while awaiting first responders to arrive.
Their quick action proved critical. One week later, on December 11, 2025, the contract driver was discharged from the hospital and returned home to Canada with his family.
In recognition of their decisive and lifesaving efforts, Larry Balliet, Billy Rutan, Nick Herman, Tyler Miracle, Jesse Curnow, and Brendon Nelson were presented with the 2025 Mission Impossible Award.
Local emergency officials also commended the team’s response. In a December 13th email to plant leadership, Tammy Stadel, Ed.D., EFO, FO of Station 3 with the Rapid City Fire Department, praised the coordinated effort.
“I truly wish your response model was seen at all facilities in our region. The work you have put in to this, including the training and coordination between your own staff, shows the pride you have in your company and the care you have for your employees.”
The incident highlights the importance of workplace emergency preparedness and the impact that training, teamwork, and calm action under pressure can have when every second counts.