CLAYTON COUNTY, Ga. -- Lester Knauls, 11, said he’s never done the Heimlich Maneuver before nor has he been trained, but when his teacher, Shirley Hines, started choking on her lunch Tuesday, Knauls did the right thing.

Hines said she was struggling to breathe and could only motion to her student to hit her back. He did more than that. Officials said he probably saved her life.

“She was out of breath and I asked her if she was okay and she didn’t answer me,” said Knauls.

“He immediately jumped to his feet and stood behind me and placed his fist (under my ribs) and began to push in,” said Hines.

While the cafeteria commotion carried on, the 11-year-old didn’t hesitate. Hines said Knauls stayed calm and cool.

“I thought a fifth grade child was going to scream or lose control, but he never did. He remained in control through the whole ordeal,” said Hines.

Hines said she has been proud of Lester all school year and now that pride is even stronger.

“He’s definitely my hero. He saved my life, without a doubt, I know he did,” said Hines.

“I love my teacher and I will never stop loving her,” said Knauls.

So, in addition to being featured on Channel 2 Action News and wsbtv.com, Lester will also be featured in the Clayton County newspaper. The Morrow Fire Department and the school board plan to honor him as well.

Lester said he’s proud to be called a hero.