(Bob Crockett/Stars and Stripes)

Frankfurt, Germany, Nov. 20, 1980: Derek Dixon, 9 (left), and J.T. Williams III pose on the playground at Frankfurt Elementary School. J.T., son of Spc. 4 William and Karen Carroll, saved Derek’s life by performing the Heimlich maneuver when he saw his friend choking at lunch. J.T., who was also 9 years old, had seen how to perform the life-saving maneuver when their teacher Kathryn Willers showed a movie on it to her fourth grade class at Frankfurt Elementery School No. 2. Derek is the son of Spec. 5 Anthony and Myrna Dixon.

Stars and Stripes celebrates the Month of the Military Child! Check out stories and drawings of dozens of “military brats” here.

For J.T. and Derek’s story, and more images of the duo, check here.