Benjamin Marsh

Benjamin Marsh entered emergency medical services with a simple goal: to build a career in which he could make a meaningful and tangible difference in people’s lives. Before he had even completed his EMT training, he found himself unexpectedly called upon to do exactly that.

On March 25, 2026, Benjamin was participating in EMT training at Fox Valley Technical College when his instructor, Karl Arps, suffered a sudden cardiac arrest. Just two weeks earlier, Karl had administered Benjamin’s formal CPR skills test. Now, the instructor had unexpectedly become the patient.

Although Benjamin was still an EMT student and had not yet received his license, he was CPR certified and immediately put his training into action. Working alongside fellow students and instructors, Benjamin helped remove Karl from the training ambulance using a longboard, assisted with bag-valve-mask ventilation, and supported the team as they performed lifesaving interventions. After receiving multiple defibrillator shocks, Karl regained a pulse and ultimately made a remarkable recovery.

For Benjamin, the experience became powerful confirmation that EMS was where he belonged. Faced with a sudden, high-pressure emergency, he discovered that he could remain composed, rely on his training, work as part of a team, and contribute meaningfully when another person’s life was at stake.

Benjamin’s actions were subsequently recognized by the Wisconsin State Legislature with a State of Wisconsin Citation of Commendation honoring his “extraordinary courage, composure, and skill” during the life-threatening emergency.

Benjamin began his EMS career in May 2026 and joined MMT in July. Today, his colleagues know him as dependable, empathetic, calm under pressure, and committed to being a strong teammate. He intends to continue his EMS education with the goal of becoming a Paramedic and, eventually, a Critical Care Paramedic.

Benjamin entered EMS because he wanted to serve others. His actions while still a student demonstrated that he already possessed many of the qualities at the heart of the profession: composure, compassion, teamwork, and a willingness to step forward when someone needs help most. The American Ambulance Association is proud to recognize Benjamin Marsh as a Star of Life.