OSKALOOSA — An amazing story of military training put into a real-life scenario that saved a person suffering a massive heart attack.  

On December 18, 2023, Nathan Kessler was surveying a field in Peru, IA when he collapsed, suffering a massive heart attack. No less than five other people were in the area, but Staff  Sergeant Nicolas M Darland immediately sprang into action, a critical moment in the survival of Mr. Kessler.  

For this heroic deed, SSG Darland was awarded the Iowa Medal of Merit, with his family and Mr. Kessler present. The Iowa Medal of Merit is the second highest state award next to the Iowa Medal of Valor.  

The presentation was on Sunday, August 18th, at the Oskaloosa Armory (2260 Hwy 63)  on the north side of Oskaloosa.  

SSG Darland attributes his twelve-year career and military training to his effective response. SSG Darland is a true selfless servant, he holds the lessons and training he has learned as a member of the Iowa National Guard and applies them in his civilian and military career. His action in a real-world situation, resulted in the saving of not only a life but of one who is a close  friend, employee, father, and husband. His actions truly distinguish himself and exemplify selfless service to the highest degree.