When a Philadelphia rail conductor suffered a medical emergency at 30th Street Station, Amtrack Officer Eddie Alderson’s quick actions made all the difference. His life-saving response kept conductor Steven Smart alive until emergency medical personnel arrived.

The call for help came from track 4, where Smart had collapsed in the café car. “Luckily, the train was already here. All the doors were open,” Officer Alderson told ABC 6.

Alderson was the first on the scene and immediately recognized the severity of the situation. “All we see is an unconscious man laying on the floor,” he shares.

In situations like this, every second is crucial. “It comes down to the second, every second — especially a heart attack,” Alderson said.

Acting swiftly, Alderson retrieved an automatic external defibrillator (AED) and began CPR. “I was on a tight train,” says Alderson, who explained that the biggest challenge was that “I was right on top of him doing CPR, and then it says ‘shock advised,’ so then I have to jump back. I’m straddling, trying not to touch his body. It was scary.”

Despite the challenges, Alderson managed to detect a faint pulse and continued providing aid until paramedics arrived. Smart, a veteran Amtrak employee of 25 years, was rushed to the hospital, where he spent two weeks in the ICU.

Alderson, a former EMS medic, was later recognized for his heroic efforts. But for him, it was all part of the job.

“How you doing, man?” Alderson said when he and Smart were reunited recently.

“Aww, you saved my life, man,” Smart responded, overwhelmed with gratitude.

Both had been eager to meet again.

“I’m looking at a real-life angel. He’s a real-life angel, and he saved my life. I am grateful to him, my train crew that knew what to do,” Smart said.

“I don’t like to deem myself a hero,” Alderson explained. “I was just doing my job. You always hope for a good outcome … and luckily for him, it turned out OK.”