YOUNGSTOWN — Chaney High School science teacher Mike Cracraft is a reluctant hero.

Last week, Cracraft was helping in the school’s cafeteria during lunch when a student, an 11th-grade girl, approached him, unable to speak. She was holding her hand to her throat, indicating she was choking.

Cracraft, a former U.S. Marine sergeant, didn’t hesitate.

“He immediately leapt into action,” said Casey Bogerd, a teacher who was in the cafeteria at the time. “Mr. Cracraft gave three abdominal thrusts, then she finally took a deep breath.”

After he made sure the girl was OK and breathing normally, Cracraft escorted her to other adults in the cafeteria who took her to the school nurse. He returned to his cafeteria duties. A modest Cracraft shys from the attention.

“I have two little children of my own and I am glad that I was able to help her,” he said.

But Bogerd and Chaney Principal Rob Kearns say that while Cracraft doesn’t want any recognition, his actions merit it.

“He doesn’t want any attention but deserves it,” Bogerd said. “He saved a life!”

Kearns agreed.

“Although, Mr. Cracraft does not want to be recognized for his actions, it is important that we recognize that Mike instinctively did everything in his power to help a student in need,” he said. “Our teachers are expertly trained and experienced in all aspects of student safety and care for our students as if they were their own.”