The Oak Harbor City Council declare June 17 as Christopher Halladey Appreciation Day for the young man’s quick thinking that saved a child from a possible catastrophe.

While driving on Whidbey Avenue last April, second class aviation warfare systems operator Halladey noticed a van rolling down a residential driveway toward the busy intersection of Whidbey Avenue and Midway Boulevard, said Councilman Jim Campbell, who read the city’s proclamation.

Halladey knew something was wrong when he saw the sole person in the car was a toddler, who stood in the driver’s seat while the vehicle rolled onto the well-traveled roadway.

“Petty Officer Halladey stopped his car, chased the van on foot and caught the van, jumped in the driver’s side and stopped the van,” Campbell said. “By his quick thinking and actions, Petty Officer Halladey averted a possible tragic event. Petty Officer Halladey’s response to this emergency is another instance of our Navy heroes aiding those in need and exemplifying the Navy core values of honor, courage and commitment to the task at hand.”

Halladey is a member of the Grey Knights of Patrol Squadron 46.