On July 17, 1967, a harrowing incident unfolded in Jacksonville, Florida, that would become a symbol of courage and humanity. Randall Champion, a lineman with the Jacksonville Electric Authority, was performing routine maintenance on a utility pole when he accidentally came into contact with a 4,160-volt power line.

The electric shock was severe enough to stop his heart and render him unconscious, leaving him dangling upside down from his safety harness approximately 20 feet in the air on West 26th Street.

This moment of crisis set the stage for a remarkable act of bravery that would be immortalized in a photograph known as “The Kiss of Life.” J.D. Thompson, Champion’s colleague and friend, was working nearby and quickly realized the gravity of the situation. Understanding that every second counted, Thompson climbed the pole to reach Champion.

With no time to lower him to the ground for proper CPR, Thompson resorted to giving mouth-to-mouth resuscitation while suspended in the air. His quick thinking and determination were crucial; he continued breathing into Champion’s lungs until he felt a faint pulse. 

This act of heroism was captured by Rocco Morabito, a photographer who happened to be passing by and witnessed the rescue unfold. Morabito’s photograph became iconic, depicting Thompson’s desperate efforts to save his friend.

The image not only highlights the immediate danger that utility workers face but also emphasizes the camaraderie and solidarity among them.

As Thompson worked tirelessly to revive Champion, Morabito snapped several photos, capturing the raw emotion of the moment. The resulting image would go on to win a Pulitzer Prize and serve as a powerful reminder of the risks associated with electrical work.

Thanks to Thompson’s swift actions, Randall Champion survived the incident with only minor injuries, including burns on his foot. Remarkably, he returned to work just a week later and continued his career for many years before passing away in 2002 at the age of 64.

J.D. Thompson has remained humble about his role in saving Champion’s life, often stating that he simply did what anyone would have done in that situation.

The Kiss of Life extends beyond personal story; it has sparked discussions about electrical safety protocols and emergency response training within the industry.

This incident serves as a poignant reminder of both the dangers faced by utility workers and the importance of preparedness in emergency situations. The photograph continues to resonate as a symbol of hope and humanity, illustrating how quick thinking and bravery can make all the difference in life-and-death situations.

Today, it stands as an enduring testament to the strength of human connection in times of crisis.