Three Georgia inmates are being praised for saving a corrections deputy after he suffered a medical emergency while supervising a jail housing unit.

The Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office said in a Facebook post, “The inmates noticed our deputy appeared to be feeling poorly as he conducted his security procedures in the housing unit. Although they were locked in their cells, they kept an eye on him as he returned to his seat at the deputy desk, where he lost consciousness and fell onto the concrete floor, splitting his head open.”

The inmates, who were locked in their cells, began banging on the doors and soon the entire housing unit joined in. The deputy, who had been unconscious, became aware of the loud drumming sound and was able to press the control panel to open the cell doors.

Once the doors were open, three inmates rushed out and rendered aid to the deputy who had passed out again. The inmates used the deputy’s radio and called for help.

The deputy was transported to the hospital and is now home recovering.

The Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office said, “These inmates came to his aid because our deputy, like most law enforcement officers, treats people with the dignity they deserve. These inmates had no obligation whatsoever to render aid to a bleeding, vulnerable deputy, but they didn't hesitate. Many people have strong opinions about law enforcement officers and criminals, but this incident clearly illustrates the potential goodness found in both.”

Thank you gentlemen for your determination and kindness. You are true heroes.

Kudos to these inmates for coming to the aid of our deputy when he suffered a cardiac emergency in a jail housing unit. We thank them for their timely assistance and the lesson their actions provide. It's not the uniform that makes a hero. It's the person wearing it. pic.twitter.com/tVDJX2FcQP

— Gwinnett Sheriff's Office (@GwinnettSO) July 29, 2020