MCTS Driver Yaghnam Yaghnam was approaching the end of his route at MATC in Oak Creek on May 31, 2019, when he spotted a turtle in the middle of the road.
Yaghnam stopped his bus, went outside and moved the little one to safety. His timing was perfect: as another bus was heading straight towards the turtle.
Before darting into the road, Yaghnam made sure to wave to the other bus and look both ways in case any other traffic was in the area.
Animal experts say it’s OK to help a turtle cross the road, as long as you keep it moving in the same direction it was headed. As it gets warmer outside, turtles often cross roads in search of new territory, breeding opportunities, food, and locations to lay eggs.
In July 2019, PETA recognized Yaghnam with a Compassionate Action Award.
“Mr. Yaghnam acted quickly and compassionately to pluck a little turtle from a perilous spot in the nick of time and send the animal on his or her way,” said PETA Vice President Colleen O’Brien. “PETA asks others to follow his lead and give turtles a helping hand during this busy wildlife season.”
“I want to congratulate Yaghnam Yaghnam for being recognized by PETA with the Compassionate Action Award,” said Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele. “It is significant, yet not surprising that an MCTS bus driver has been recognized on the national stage yet again. This honor is a testament to Yaghnam’s commitment to going above and beyond the call of duty — both for our riders, and for the four-legged friends that share the roads.”
In December 2019, Yaghnam was named one of PETA’s Top Animal Rescuers of the year.
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