Lester Freemantle

Lester Freemantle’s lifelong commitment to emergency medical services began in the small town of Pittstown in Rensselaer County, New York. Inspired by his two older brothers, who helped establish their hometown ambulance service, Lester enrolled in an American Red Cross Advanced First Aid course at just 15 years old. By 16, he was already riding on the ambulance and serving his community.

At 17, Lester was encouraged to pursue New York State EMT certification. After completing the course, he was recruited for instructor training and soon began teaching American Red Cross Advanced First Aid and assisting with EMT classes—all while still a teenager. Those early experiences began a lifelong commitment not only to caring for patients, but also to educating and developing others.

After high school, Lester joined a paid ambulance service and, in 1982, became one of the organization’s first Paramedics. In November 1984, he joined Mohawk Ambulance Service and quickly advanced into a supervisory role. During more than four decades with Mohawk, Lester has served in numerous leadership positions, including Supervisor, Manager, and Regional Manager. In November 2024, he renewed his Emergency Medical Technician certification and currently serves as a Captain.

Lester’s influence extends far beyond his individual agency. Throughout his career, he has been deeply involved in EMS at the local, regional, and statewide levels, serving on county EMS committees, the Regional EMS Council, and the New York State Emergency Medical Services Council (SEMSCO). He has also served as a board member and chair of the United New York Ambulance Network (UNYAN).

Through these roles, Lester has worked alongside counties, hospitals, state agencies, and other EMS stakeholders on issues affecting providers and ambulance services throughout New York. As chair of SEMSCO’s Legislative Committee, he has contributed to work involving EMS legislation, regulations, funding initiatives, and reimbursement. His service has also included collaboration with the New York State Office of Emergency Management, the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, and the New York State Sepsis Committee.

Despite the breadth of his accomplishments, one of the most rewarding aspects of Lester’s career has been watching others grow and succeed. He takes tremendous pride in seeing colleagues develop within the organization and continue building meaningful careers of their own. After decades as an instructor, supervisor, manager, advocate, and mentor, his influence can be seen in generations of EMS professionals.

That legacy extends to Lester’s own family. He is the proud father of two children, both of whom are involved in EMS, and a grandfather of five. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his family and tackling projects around his home and yard.

From entering EMS as a teenager to becoming a respected leader and advocate with more than four decades of service at Mohawk Ambulance, Lester has devoted his life to strengthening emergency medical services and the people who provide them. Mohawk Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Lester Freemantle as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.