Jason Nugent has been a paramedic at Puckett EMS for almost 12 years and a supervisor for ten of those years. He worked as a Chattanooga medic before becoming ideally suited for the field supervisor position.
Jason was born and raised in Marion County, Tennessee. He has served as part of Kimball Fire & Rescue. He is active in his community and is a frequent attendee at Marion County Commission meetings. Marion County Mayor David Jackson has said he views Jason as the liaison between Marion County Commissioners and Puckett EMS.
Jason is well-known and well-liked in his community and within our Puckett EMS community. Any time there is a catastrophic event, Jason is on scene to assist—even when it means coming in on his day off from work.
Jason is fortunate that his wife is a long-term dispatcher for Marion County, so she is understanding of the business and Jason’s connection to the community.
Sheila Norton has been with Puckett EMS, part of the Priority Ambulance family of companies, for 14 years. Sheila’s interest in EMS started early. She described how she was an “ambulance chaser” when she was young. Her family and friends thought she was just nosey, but deep inside, Sheila wanted to help. She would run after the ambulance in her neighborhood to see how she could help.
Sheila had a promising career in general merchandising, but that all changed in 2007 when her mother had a stroke. Sheila said the compassion and kindness the EMS crew showed her mother was amazing. She wanted to return that level of commitment and stewardship to other people, starting Sheila on her EMS journey. Sheila attended a rigorous in-house EMT-I program at Puckett EMS and excelled. Her career followed the same trajectory as Sheila rose to the position of Operations Supervisor today.
Sheila’s desire to help others is contagious. She consistently exemplifies genuine compassion and care for her patients and families. Sheila is a role model and “mother” figure to the younger EMTs and Paramedics who come through Puckett EMS. Her gentle yet stern way of leading resonates throughout the company’s culture.
Sheila has received numerous honors, including EMT of the Year and Paramedic of the Year, and she has been honored with several Phoenix Awards presented for exceptional trauma care delivery. Sheila’s patients are also quick to call her out on her compassionate care, noting that Sheila made them feel “like family.”
Teighlor has served Cocke County, TN, since August 2023. She is from a tiny town in Southern Ohio. Watching the care her grandparents received following a stroke and lung cancer planted the seed and grew Teighlor’s love for EMS. She began her career in Huntington, West Virginia, in 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic began. The area was rampant with addiction and poverty, and Teighlor set a goal to treat each patient just as her grandparents had been treated.
Teighlor believes it does not take much to make a difference in someone’s life. Since working in Cocke County, she has “adopted” one of our repetitive dialysis patients. Teighlor spends her free time brightening the individual’s day, helping with tasks ranging from grocery shopping to painting fingernails—small gestures that illustrate Teighlor’s big heart.
Though Firefighter Richard Majors has only been with the Goodyear Fire Department for one year, and is still undergoing initial Paramedic training, his zeal and commitment were evident on May 25, 2023.
Faced with the daunting challenge of a pediatric drowning incident, Majors exhibited immense dedication, working cohesively with his team to stabilize and ultimately save the life of the young boy. Embracing customer service in both fire suppression and emergency medical care, his actions that day are a testament to his commitment and potential as a firefighter and EMT.
Recognizing his pivotal role in the life-saving intervention, Richard Majors is undeniably deserving of a nomination for the Star of Life Award.
Firefighter Paramedic Kyle Derr has served the Goodyear Fire Department as a firefighter for five years and a Paramedic for two.
On May 25, 2023, he demonstrated admirable professionalism and calm in the face of a challenging situation.
Confronted with the distressing scene of a pediatric drowning, Kyle’s training and instincts kicked in. Working alongside his crew, he played a crucial role in achieving the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) for the young boy. By ensuring that the team followed the established protocols, Kyle contributed significantly to the child’s chance of survival and ultimate recovery.
His commitment to EMS excellence, combined with his quick action on that fateful day, solidify his nomination for the Star of Life Award.
Serving for 15 years with the Goodyear Fire Department, Engineer Andrew Goodwin has consistently showcased his unwavering commitment to the safety of Goodyear’s citizens. His depth of experience in EMS was pivotal on the harrowing afternoon of May 25, 2023.
When a pediatric drowning call came through, Engineer Goodwin’s swift response was instrumental in the successful resuscitation of the five-year-old boy. His ability to work seamlessly with his teammates, providing vital support, and ensuring that the crew stayed on scene to stabilize the patient prior to transport, proved crucial. The child’s full recovery is a testament to Engineer Goodwin’s dedication, skill, and adherence to proven protocols.
His valiant efforts on that day make him an exemplary candidate for the Star of Life Award.
With over 25 years of dedicated service under his belt, Captain Patrick Doyle has been a steadfast pillar in the Goodyear Fire Department. His dedication has not only been in fire suppression but also in providing vital emergency medical care to the residents of Goodyear, Arizona.
On May 25, 2023, a chilling call at 1711 hours summoned Captain Doyle and his team to respond to a pediatric drowning at a community pool. Upon arrival, Captain Doyle faced the heart-wrenching sight of an unresponsive five-year-old boy, being attended to by a City of Avondale police officer. Undeterred, Captain Doyle and the crew of Engine 183 swung into action. Under his leadership, they quickly cleared the child’s airway, began CPR/MICR, and stabilized him, ultimately achieving a return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC).
Their exemplary on-scene response, prioritizing stabilization before transportation, proved invaluable, and the child was subsequently discharged from Phoenix Children’s Hospital without any deficits.
This life-saving intervention is a testament to Captain Doyle’s unwavering commitment and expertise, making him a deserving nominee for the Star of Life Award.
Regional Ambulance Service proudly awards the Star of Life to Daisy Moore. In just over a year with us, Daisy has showcased unparalleled compassion and dedication to her patients. Her infectious smile and positivity inspire her colleagues daily.
Starting her EMS career in 2016 with the National Guard, Daisy boasts eight years as a skilled Paramedic. She also actively serves in the Vermont National Guard, further displaying her commitment.
Daisy not only upholds but exemplifies our motto: “Serving People First with Pride, Proficiency, and Professionalism.” We’re honored to have such a stellar Paramedic on our team.
Luke Stengler has been an EMT for one year. He began his service in a quaint town in Virginia, before transferring to San Diego in February 2023. Throughout his tenure, Luke has consistently showcased his exemplary skills as an EMT. Yet, it was on April 1st, 2023, that his dedication and bravery truly shone through.
On this fateful day, the assigned crew on BLS5 comprised of EMT-B Kristine Kokkinos and EMT-B Luke Stengler. While en route to another assignment, they unexpectedly stumbled upon an accident. Swiftly surveying the situation, they halted to provide assistance. In their rapid response, both EMTs ensured scene safety by positioning their ambulance as a protective buffer against incoming traffic, thereby ensuring a safer environment for all present. The duo then proceeded to assess everyone involved, simultaneously relocating vehicles to the shoulder, clearing the main traffic lanes.
Their most poignant moment arose when they encountered a distressed individual, who had crashed his vehicle into the guardrail of an overpass bridge in a tragic attempt to end his own life. As the BLS5 crew approached to offer aid, this individual abruptly ran towards the bridge railing with the intent of leaping. CHP reports and witness testimonies confirm that as the man jumped, both EMT Kokkinos and Stengler, showcasing immense courage and disregarding their own safety, grasped him mid-air. They nearly plummeted off the side of the bridge, which towers 60-70 feet above a bustling freeway. Their unwavering grip and determination ensured that they did not let this individual fall to an untimely demise. Both EMTs displayed a heroic act, risking their lives for someone they had never met, who had made a grievous choice.
Originally from San Diego, Luke is currently advancing his education by pursuing a bachelor’s degree through the University of Arizona online. Off duty, he passionately participates in a hockey league alongside his high school teammates and hones his skills in jiu-jitsu.
The Falck team extends heartfelt gratitude to Luke Stengler for his unwavering commitment to both the organization and the communities we serve. His courage and dedication are truly inspiring.
Paramedic Michael Oseguera was chosen as Falck Northern California’s Star of Life due to his unwavering commitment to aiding those in distress.
While off-duty, shortly after completing his shift, Michael showcased remarkable courage and selflessness. He approached a young woman who was contemplating suicide on an overpass above a freeway. Without a second thought, he offered not only a listening ear and comforting words but also a reassuring embrace that proved crucial in that moment. His prompt response and genuine empathy averted a potential tragedy, safeguarding a precious life.
Michael’s dedication to the community transcends standard Paramedic responsibilities. His actions on that pivotal day truly embody the spirit of a hero, and showcase the genuine heart of a first responder.
In the four short years since Laura Lingeman joined REMSA Health, she has made important contributions to the organization and the healthcare ecosystem of northern Nevada. She was immediately identified as a provider dedicated to clinical excellence, outstanding patient and customer care, and committed to the success of her colleagues. Currently, Laura is an EMS Operations Supervisor, providing clinical and operational support for up to 60 Paramedics and EMTs.
Laura came to the organization as a field Paramedic where she worked for about 18 months. However, her passion for out-of-hospital healthcare couldn’t be contained and she grew into a Community Health Paramedic role. In that position, Laura was instrumental in developing an organization-wide High EMS User policy focused on key performance indicators and data tracking methods. In addition, she worked to expand the scope of practice to include the delivery of additional medications and the use of new monitoring technology for Community Paramedicine (CP) patients. She proactively educated field crews about the need for and use of CP and created social service resource tools for field providers to access during their shifts. Laura has also served on internal committees including the System Needs Committee which included peer-level retention and recruitment work, as well as transitioning field crews to a 40-hour work week. In 2020, she received a STARCARE award in recognition of outstanding patient care.
Having worked as an EMT and Paramedic field training officer, skills instructor, and Search and Rescue volunteer and technician, Laura’s vast mobile healthcare experience is proof of her curiosity, intellect, and energetic approach. She holds multiple EMS-related certifications, and a bachelor’s degree in International Studies with an emphasis in Global Health from the University of Utah.
Laura takes full advantage of living in northern Nevada and spends time snow skiing, rock-climbing, running, thrift shopping, and tending to her 50 house plants.
“Laura is a valued member of the organization,” says Adam Heinz, COO, REMSA Health. “She tackles projects with enthusiasm, seizes opportunities to make improvements, and is trusted by leadership, peers, and crews alike. There’s no question that out-of-hospital healthcare in our region benefits from Laura’s presence.”
Danny Neczek is a skilled EMT and 20-year veteran at MedEx Ambulance. Danny functions as an Operations Supervisor, and will soon complete his training as an ambulance mechanic as well.
On the evening of March 6th, while supervising MedEx’s South Base, Danny suffered full cardiac arrest. Ironically, the team was celebrating National Employee Appreciation Day with pizza.
Fortunately, Danny was surrounded by five EMTs and three Paramedics. The MedEx team immediately reacted and began resuscitative measures on Danny. Danny was down for 22 minutes when the team finally got a pulse back. Danny was rushed by a MedEx crew to the University of Illinois Hospital, where he was placed in a hypothermic coma. Miraculously, 10 days later, Danny was discharged from the hospital with NO lasting effects from the incident.
Today Danny has returned to full active duty, and serves as a walking and talking reminder of the importance of what EMS does each and every day.
EMT Kristine Kokkinos has dedicated her EMS skills and expertise to the residents of San Diego County for the last two years. In this relatively short span, she has impacted the lives of hundreds.
On April 1, 2023, her commitment to the role was dramatically put into practice. While en route to another assignment, Kristine and her partner, EMT Luke Stengler, chanced upon a serious accident scene. Without hesitation, they took command of the situation and positioned their ambulance as a protective barrier from ongoing traffic, making the scene safer for everyone involved.
Their rapid assessment led them to prioritize the victims and clear the traffic lanes. However, one individual, reportedly intoxicated and vocal about his intent to end his life, dramatically accelerated his vehicle and crashed into the guardrail of an overpass. As the crew approached him, the man leapt up and dashed for the bridge’s edge. Witnesses and the California Highway Patrol recounted that as he vaulted over the side, shouting his suicidal intent, both Kristine and Luke, without a second thought for their own safety, reached out and caught him in midair. Teetering on the edge, with a 60-70 ft. drop onto active freeway lanes below, the two EMTs held firm. In doing so, they undoubtedly saved his life.
On a personal note, Kristine has called North County, San Diego home since 2018. She completed her EMT certification at Palomar College and has plans to further her education by pursuing her Paramedic License. Away from the high-intensity world of emergency response, Kristine finds solace at the beach, cherishes moments with her family, and scales heights while rock climbing with friends.
San Diego celebrates and deeply appreciates Kristine Kokkinos for her unwavering commitment and selfless service.
David Swatsenbarg’s EMS journey began when he pursued his EMT licensure at the Tulsa Technology Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma two decades ago. Driven by his commitment to lifelong learning, David continued his education by enrolling at Rogers State University in Claremore, Oklahoma. There, he achieved his EMT-Intermediate credential, marking an important milestone in his EMS career. His relentless pursuit of excellence continued as he undertook the Paramedic program at Cherokee Nation EMS, earning his licensure in 2012.
In April 2017, David embarked on a new chapter of his career by joining Pafford EMS of Oklahoma as a Paramedic. In this role, David provided exemplary care in the field. He soon progressed to his current role as a Supervisor in Haskell County.
David’s dedication to helping others in times of crisis led him to complete two deployments to the US Virgin Islands, where his expertise and compassion were invaluable.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, David is a devoted father to his two children, Billy and Kaylie. During his well-deserved time off-duty, David finds solace in exploring national forests, indulging in camping adventures, and venturing off-road in his trusty Jeep.
David Swatsenbarg is widely recognized as a knowledgeable, skilled, and profoundly compassionate Paramedic. His unwavering commitment to professionalism and compassionate example have set him apart, making him a shining star within the Oklahoma EMS community. Pafford Medical Services takes immense pride in David’s achievements and contributions to the field of EMS.
Cody Nash, NREMT-P, leads as Operations Manager for Pafford Medical Services of Johnson County, Arkansas. Nash oversees the day-to-day operations and his staff while also serving in his role across Pafford’s service areas as a Clinical Services Training Coordinator. Additionally, Cody utilizes his clinical skills as a Flight Certified Paramedic with Pafford Air Med.
12 years ago, Nash began his EMS career as an EMT and advanced to the Paramedic level within four years. His colleagues and patients have praised him for his calm demeanor, quick thinking, and unwavering dedication to his work. When asked what intrigued him about the EMS industry, he responded that it was the ability to combine clinical decision-making skills with hands-on operational skills to serve communities in their time of need and benefit the greater good.
Nash is known among his peers as an “all-in” team player for Pafford Medical Services, driving change no matter if he was serving as a Field Training Officer or a manager; he truly leads by example. Often, he can be found mentoring young medics and providing clinical insight and encouragement as they are on their journey to becoming a highly-skilled and compassionate EMS provider.
Clinically, the care he provides is second to none, as he exhibits an unwavering commitment toward growth and excellence to his patients, community, and colleagues. As a reflection of his exceptional skills and expertise, other leaders within the Pafford Organization have taken notice of Nash’s talents, among which his patient care, customer service, and affective skills are in a class of their own. He is a true asset to his community, and his dedication to his work has made a lasting impact on the lives of countless people in need.
When off the clock, you will find Cody enjoying time spent with his family, being part of his kids’ extracurricular activities, practicing Jiu Jitsu and archery, and spending time in the kitchen cooking.
Nash would like to thank his teammates in the field. He shared, “As a Paramedic, I am one small part of a large network of first responders and hospital staff who all work together for the greater good of our community, and I would like to dedicate this award to those unsung heroes.”
Pafford Medical Services honors the legacy of Luke Jarrell, whose distinguished career in EMS spanned more than twenty years. This included a decade of dedicated service as a licensed Paramedic with Pafford. Luke’s journey into this profession commenced during his tenure as a firefighter, where his compassion and a profound desire to extend assistance to those in their most critical time of need led him into the realm of pre-hospital care.
Renowned for his benevolent spirit, Luke harbored an unwavering commitment and pursuit of excellence in patient care. His relentless study and review of medical materials ensured that his patients received the highest quality care possible.
As Luke’s hard-fought battle with cancer came to an end, his legacy is an enduring testament to his steadfast dedication and selfless service and the indelible mark that he left on his community. He touched countless lives and forged lasting friendships in his beloved home of Tunica, Mississippi.
Luke’s wife Debra shared,
“While I can’t tell you the exact emotions that Luke would feel with being selected as this year’s Star of Life for Pafford, I can tell you how I feel. I am extremely proud of him for his years of dedication and service to the community. Luke cared for the community and the people of Tunica. He changed the lives of some and made friends with many.
As his wife, I feel very honored that he was selected. My only wish is that he were here to receive it for himself and to be as proud as his family is.
As someone who is also in the EMS field, there are many rewarding parts, especially the family and friends that you make along the way. Your coworkers become a part of the life you have strived so hard to build. Ultimately, they become a permanent part of your family. What people fail to realize when coming into the EMS profession is that your family, both work and home, become your backbone and your support. That is where your success comes from in this field.
I would like to thank Pafford Medical Service and his work family, for everything that you have done for Luke during his time as an employee, and for everything that you have done for us, his home family, during this difficult time. Thank you for honoring him and his memory as a Paramedic and selecting him for this award.”
Since April 2017, Eric Thompson has been an exemplary Paramedic at Community Care Ambulance Network. His commitment to upholding and enhancing industry standards has kept both his skills and those of his team at the forefront. Eric, a natural educator, fosters creative thinking and self-reflection among peers. Most notably, his unwavering dedication to patient advocacy highlights the values of Community Care Ambulance. Congratulations, Eric, for setting the gold standard in patient care.
Kyle Hammon has been a dedicated member of the Community Care Ambulance Network team since July 2013.
With his dynamic personality, Kyle has consistently engaged with our community, offering not only his skills but also sharing his extensive knowledge with burgeoning EMS professionals and seasoned colleagues alike. As a Field Training Officer, Kyle is committed to ensuring that new hires have all the resources and tools they need to excel. He sets a benchmark for excellence, always seeking avenues for self-improvement while motivating others to reach their potential.
Kyle’s dedication and expertise solidify his reputation as an exceptional EMT and Field Training Officer for Community Care Ambulance. CCA is proud to honor Kyle as a 2023 Star of Life.
Victor Hoffer has been a steadfast presence in the EMS community since 1980, serving with Falck Northwest Ambulance in Salem, Oregon. With over 40 years of experience as a Nationally Registered Paramedic, he has consistently demonstrated proficiency and dedication. In addition to his EMS duties, Victor contributes to road safety as the Chair of the Oregon Transportation Safety Committee, a gubernatorial appointment. He also volunteers as a Captain Paramedic-Firefighter with Mt. Angel Fire.
A recent event underscored Victor’s capability and resilience. Alongside his partner, Carol, they responded to a harrowing call involving a 9-year-old girl found unconscious and pulseless in a bathtub. Carol commenced CPR compressions while Victor swiftly established an advanced airway. The persistent PEA was a challenge they faced for over 45 minutes, administering advanced cardiac care with unwavering focus. By the time they reached Salem Hospital Emergency Department, the girl’s temperature was a concerning 75 degrees Fahrenheit. However, through a combination of their initial interventions and the hospital’s subsequent treatments, including rewarming and the application of Extra Corporal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO), the young patient began her path to recovery.
This incident illustrates the importance of experience, team collaboration, and decisive action in EMS. Both Victor and Carol played integral roles as links in the chain of survival.
Falck is honored to recognize Victor Hoffer as a 2023 Star of Life.
Rebecca “Becca” Ellis, a dedicated EMT at Falck Mobile Health, exhibited extraordinary valor and expertise during a critical incident at a jiu-jitsu studio. Upon being dispatched to a Code 3 for a cardiac arrest and realizing they were mere moments away, Becca and her partner Austin arrived on scene in less than a minute. Racing to the second floor, Becca found the patient suspended upside-down, with alarmed peers shouting about his lack of breath. Swiftly assessing the situation, she had the patient set down and confirmed he was pulseless and not breathing. Without hesitation, Becca initiated life-saving chest compressions while Austin prepared the AED and BVM. Their rapid actions and precise protocols, which included a successful shock delivery after initially receiving a “no shock advised” signal from the AED, led to the patient regaining consciousness and breathing autonomously.
By the time they arrived at the hospital, the patient was not only stable but engaged in heartfelt conversations, expressing deep gratitude for Becca and Austin’s outstanding efforts. Their quick thinking and resolute actions had transformed a potentially tragic situation into a story of hope and recovery.
At just 19 years old and with only seven months of experience as an EMT, Becca’s passion for her profession is evident. Outside of her life-saving role, she is a fervent advocate for mental and physical health, a talented artist, and an outdoor enthusiast. Furthermore, she is dedicated to her education, always eager to expand her knowledge in EMS. With aspirations of potentially joining the fire service and a clear devotion to her loved ones, Becca’s off-shift moments are spent cherishing her family, friends, and relaxation.
The Star of Life award is a testament to Becca Ellis’s remarkable skills, determination, and the bright future that surely lies ahead for her in EMS.
