Matthew Lambert is a passionate EMS advocate who has made a significant impact in his community by raising awareness about the role and services of his EMS operation. Known for his selfless dedication to teaching, Matthew goes out of his way to help fellow clinicians stay informed about the latest advancements in the emergency medical field. His expertise has earned him recognition for numerous “saves,” and he has received multiple awards for achieving ROSC (Return of Spontaneous Circulation) in the field.
One of Matthew’s most notable calls involved a patient trapped in a fiery car crash, suffering burns over 90% of their body. Despite the life-threatening injuries, Matthew’s swift and skillful intervention saved the patient’s life. His dedication to his craft and his community continues to inspire and make a profound difference in the lives of those he serves.
Chris Thomason, honored as a 2024 Star of Life, has over 20 years of experience as a paramedic with ProMed Ambulance in El Dorado, Arkansas. In addition to his paramedic duties, Chris serves as an EMS Instructor and CQI Coordinator, and he is currently pursuing his license as a Community Paramedic. His passion for promoting excellence in EMS is evident in both his professional career and his dedication to supporting the community.
Chris was nominated for the prestigious Stars of Life award for his heroic actions in saving the life of a sudden cardiac arrest victim while on vacation. While at the beach, Chris noticed a man collapse and immediately sprang into action. He initiated CPR and, with the help of other responders, successfully restored the victim’s heartbeat. Thanks to Chris’ swift actions, calm demeanor, and clinical expertise, the 39-year-old victim made a full recovery and was able to reunite with his family.
Chris’ commitment to EMS, combined with his leadership and exceptional clinical skills, continues to make a profound impact on the lives of those he serves.
Dan Laguna is being recognized for a lifetime of service that spans both the EMS industry and the military. His life has been compared to a Hollywood movie, filled with early-life hardships overcome and a highly decorated career in the Green Berets. His military service includes combat in Operation Desert Storm and Mogadishu, Somalia, where he participated in the famous “Blackhawk Down” search-and-rescue operation. His autobiography, You Have to Live Hard to Be Hard, has influenced and informed aviation and military operations around the world.
Dan’s distinguished post-military career with REACH Air Medical Services has allowed him to continue influencing pilots across the country with his knowledge, expertise, and example of sacrifice, dedication, and resilience. Having often been in need of medical attention during his combat experience, Dan now views the EMS field as an opportunity to give back for the help he received when he needed it most. His greatest satisfaction comes from being there for others in their time of need.
Alissa (Ali) Krisher, a Critical Care Paramedic with Superior Air-Ground Ambulance of Wisconsin, has been a dedicated member of the EMS community for over 11 years. Originally from Marion, Wisconsin, a small town of around 1,200 people, Alissa began her EMS journey as an EMT and quickly advanced to become a paramedic. She later obtained her Critical Care Paramedic certification, serving many years responding to 911 calls and providing expert care to her patients.
As part of the Critical Care Team at Superior, Alissa has brought her passion for exceptional patient care to every call. She has also dedicated time outside the ambulance, teaching EMS at a local community college and volunteering at numerous medical events. She holds a special place in her heart for pediatric patients, always striving to provide the highest level of care to the youngest and most vulnerable members of the community.
Outside of her professional life, Alissa is a single mother to her 6-year-old daughter, Aubree, who is the light of her life. Aubree is the driving force behind Alissa’s dedication to EMS, inspiring her to be the best version of herself both as a professional and as a mother. Together, they enjoy fishing, riding their family’s SXS, cooking, playing various sports, and spending time with family. Both share a love for reading, and their bond is central to Alissa’s motivation to succeed.
Alissa is deeply honored to have been chosen as a recipient of the Star of Life award and looks forward to many more years in EMS. She hopes to inspire her daughter—and others—to believe that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. Her unwavering dedication to her profession and her commitment to being a role model for Aubree exemplify the values of a true Star of Life.
David Kingdon is being recognized for his outstanding leadership during the devastating fires on Maui, particularly in the town of Lahaina. David is the team leader of Maui’s only rapid-response unit and has been instrumental in expanding the unit’s capabilities to perform advanced functions, including training and deployments with the Special Response Team unit at the Maui Police Department, and collaborating with the U.S. Coast Guard to launch specially trained paramedics on their response boat. When fires on the island spread rapidly in August of 2023, David took it upon himself to act as medical incident commander. He worked tirelessly in uncertain conditions to ensure that patients were triaged, treated and transported safely to healthcare facilities and that his team members remained safe as well. As the fires were brought under control, he continued to ensure EMS operations were uninterrupted while the island dealt with tremendous loss.
Brian Keith began his career in the fire service in Arizona, dedicating twenty years to serving his community. Throughout those years, he faced many challenges, but the common denominator in all situations was being part of a team that provided superior care to those in need. Retiring as a Captain/Paramedic, Brian decided to move to Wisconsin to be closer to his family.
Brian is married to his wife Kelly, and together they have a blended family with four children, aged 23 to 31, and two young grandchildren. When not working, Brian enjoys traveling to Arizona and Florida to visit his children and grandkids. He and Kelly are both passionate about golf and enjoy spending time on the course whenever possible. He also loves fishing, kayaking, exploring Wisconsin, and spending time with their two huskies.
Currently working as an EMT in Superior, Wisconsin, Brian and his partner, fellow Star of Life recipient Alissa Krisher, were recognized for their excellent care and assistance provided during an emergent CCT interfacility transport. The patient, who had survived cardiac arrest, required seamless, critical care, and Brian and Alissa’s expertise ensured a smooth transport to a higher level of care. Their teamwork and dedication made a profound impact on the patient’s outcome.
Though unable to attend the Star of Life award ceremony in person, Brian is deeply appreciative of this recognition. He humbly acknowledges the contributions of the first responders and hospital staff involved in the case, emphasizing that saving the patient’s life was a collective effort driven by a shared commitment to providing excellent care.
Lillie’s expertise is vast, and she is an invaluable resource to her colleagues. With tri-state licensure as a Paramedic in Arkansas, Tennessee, and Mississippi, she is equipped to provide care across a wide geographic area. This unique qualification enhances her ability to serve multiple communities and respond to diverse medical emergencies.
A key area where Lillie excels is in mentorship and coaching. She has played an instrumental role in improving employee onboarding, retention, and morale, using her talent for active listening and her ability to connect with staff across generations. Her efforts have made her a role model for effective communication in a diverse workforce, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.
In addition to her operational roles, Lillie is a vital member of the company’s compliance team. She is responsible for understanding and implementing corporate compliance initiatives across the Priority family of companies, contributing significantly to quality assurance and risk minimization efforts.
Lillie Jamison’s multifaceted contributions, her dedication to excellence, and her ability to inspire and mentor her colleagues make her a standout nominee for the American Ambulance Association Star of Life award.
Morgan Halliburton, an EMT at ProMed Ambulance in Pocahontas, Arkansas, has made a remarkable impact in her short time in EMS, prioritizing patient well-being in every situation. Since launching her career in 2022, Morgan has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to her community and to advancing her skills. Currently enrolled as a paramedic intern at the School of EMS, she is dedicated to becoming the best provider possible.
Morgan is being honored as a 2024 EMS Star of Life for her outstanding patient advocacy and critical thinking. One standout example of her expertise occurred when she responded to a call at a local hotel for a patient who believed he had suffered a spider bite. What seemed like a routine call quickly escalated when Morgan recognized that the patient was in septic shock, with severe swelling and compromised circulation in his hand.
Though the patient initially requested transport to a local, rural hospital, Morgan’s calm and professional communication convinced him to accept an aggressive transfer to a specialized care center. Her quick decision-making and coordination of an air medical transport to the state’s top trauma facility saved the patient’s life. A month later, the patient reached out to thank the crew, sharing that the trauma center physician told him, “Had you arrived an hour later, you likely would not have survived.”
Morgan’s unwavering dedication, patient-centered approach, and ability to remain composed under pressure exemplify the qualities of a true EMS professional. ProMed Ambulance is proud to recognize Morgan Halliburton as a 2024 EMS Star of Life for her passion and commitment to excellence.
Heather James, an Advanced Emergency Medical Technician with American Medical Response in Lagrange, Georgia, is being recognized for her heroic efforts in delivering and saving a baby who was born pulseless while en route to the hospital.
The incident occurred last June when an expectant mother began experiencing labor in the ambulance. Heather’s partner, AEMT Amanda Owens, was driving while Heather attended to the mother. After delivering the baby, Heather quickly noticed the newborn wasn’t breathing and immediately sprang into action. She administered CPR and performed lifesaving interventions, successfully resuscitating the baby before transferring both mother and child to the hospital.
Thanks to Heather and Amanda’s quick thinking and skillful interventions, the baby, though initially facing a long road to recovery, is now healthy and recently celebrated their first birthday. The baby’s mother credits Heather and Amanda for saving her child’s life, and their selfless dedication is a testament to the exceptional care provided by EMS professionals.
Heather’s life-saving actions in such a critical situation exemplify her commitment to her patients and her remarkable skill as an AEMT.
Kristen Hunter has been a dedicated member of the Action Ambulance Service, Inc. team for more than 16 years. During her time here, she has become a beloved Supervisor and a trusted mentor to her peers. Known for her positive outlook and can-do attitude, Kristen is always willing to go the extra mile to support her co-workers and ensure the best care for her community.
Outside of work, Kristen enjoys spending time with her two children, Caleb and Talor, as well as her two dogs, Justice and Liberty. She also has a passion for decorating and loves to make every occasion special.
Action Ambulance is proud to recognize Kristen Hunter as our 2024 Star of Life, honoring her outstanding service and dedication to both her team and the communities she serves.
Alan Hughry began his EMS career with Medic Ambulance Service in 2003. Before entering the field of emergency medical services, he had dreams of pursuing a career in law enforcement. However, an injury prevented him from completing his police academy training, leading him to take a position in armed security. During this time, he met Barbara “Barbie” Watson, a Paramedic with Medic Ambulance, who convinced him that EMS held exciting opportunities. Barbie even offered Alan a ride-along to give him firsthand experience before making his final decision. Though initially reluctant, Alan accepted the offer.
The first call they responded to left Alan terrified and uncertain about his future in EMS, but subsequent calls opened his eyes to the potential impact of the profession. Shortly after the ride-along, Alan enrolled at Solano Community College, where he completed his EMT course. He started with Medic Ambulance as a dispatcher, which served as his entry point into the company. Before long, he was promoted to the field as an EMT, working with skilled paramedics who taught him more than he ever expected.
These experiences prepared Alan for his next challenge: paramedic school. He completed his training, clinical rotations, and field internship in 2006 and was promoted to paramedic in February 2007. Throughout his career, Alan has had the privilege of serving as a field medic, a supervisor, and a preceptor for aspiring Paramedics. Though he spent some time in a supervisory role, he eventually returned to the field, where he continues to find fulfillment. He has learned to embrace both the highs and lows of the industry.
Alan has been honored to receive the company’s prestigious Paramedic of the Year award twice during his tenure. Each day, he strives for excellence as he puts on his uniform and heads into the streets. Alan has worked with many EMT partners, most of whom have since become paramedics themselves. He takes pride in mentoring these individuals, especially the newer EMTs, helping them navigate the daily stresses of the job.
Looking ahead, Alan is committed to continuing his role in providing high-quality care to those he serves, mentoring those seeking guidance in the field, and supporting his community, coworkers, and family. Alan credits much of his success to the support of his wife, Stephanie, his eldest son, Alan III (13), and his younger son, Alonzo (11).
Royce Hsiung, EMT-IV Tech at Lakes Region EMS, has been a dedicated member of the organization since 2018, beginning as an EMT and advancing to the role of EMT Field Training Officer (FTO) in 2020. In addition to his EMS work, Royce has proudly served in the Army National Guard since 2012, bringing invaluable leadership and experience to both his military and EMS roles. Over the years, Royce has played a significant role in mentoring and educating new EMS professionals, occasionally serving as an orientation educator for new hires.
What truly sets Royce apart are the acts of kindness he performs outside of his typical EMS duties. Whether it’s shoveling a patient’s driveway or helping an elderly patient with groceries, Royce believes these compassionate acts are as important as providing medical care. In one memorable instance, he helped a patient clean her kitchen while his partner made her a sandwich. Her son later arrived, expressing deep gratitude, and the moment exemplified the quiet, meaningful impact Royce has on his community.
Royce has also been instrumental in the evolution of the FTO program at Lakes Region EMS. When he first became an FTO, the program was paper-based and lacked clear goals. Thanks to the collaboration between FTOs and the incorporation of feedback, the program has since transitioned to a digital system, making the experience more efficient for new hires. Royce takes pride in seeing former trainees rise to become FTOs themselves, recognizing this as one of the most rewarding aspects of his role.
Outside of his professional life, Royce leads an active lifestyle, enjoying gym workouts, running, and single-track trail riding. He and his wife play in two volleyball leagues, and he also enjoys disc golfing, amateur ball golfing, and camping with his family. A lifelong learner, Royce engages in various hobbies such as tying fishing flies, playing video games, and learning to cook. He also loves traveling with his wife and spending time outdoors.
Through his dedication to Lakes Region EMS, his military service, and his commitment to helping others, Royce Hsiung embodies the spirit of the Star of Life award. His compassionate approach and continuous drive for improvement make him an exemplary EMS professional.
Jason Hodges, Operations Supervisor and Honor Guard Commander for American Medical Response in Washington County, Oregon, is being honored for his unwavering selflessness and dedication to his patients and team members. Since joining the AMR Honor Guard in 2011, Jason has been an active participant in numerous memorials and events supporting both AMR and affiliated organizations. As the current Commander of the Honor Guard for the Oregon/Southwest Washington region, Jason goes above and beyond to ensure that each memorial event is flawlessly executed and that the families affected are well taken care of.
In addition to his Honor Guard responsibilities, Jason extends his compassion and leadership to his fellow crew members, often acting as a mentor in times of need. In 2023, he joined the Multnomah County leadership team as a relief supervisor, seamlessly transitioning into this role and quickly earning the respect and admiration of his field medics. Jason’s commitment to his team and the community is evident through his actions, consistently going above and beyond the call of duty.
Jason has also deployed to disaster-stricken areas, assisting vulnerable citizens in the aftermath of hurricanes and wildfires, exemplifying the GMR mission of providing care to the world at a moment’s notice. His selfless dedication and leadership make him an invaluable asset to the EMS profession, and American Medical Response is proud to recognize Jason Hodges as a Star of Life.
Timothy Hinchcliff’s journey in emergency medical services began at just 16 years old when he started as a volunteer with Burholme First Aid Corps. From those early days, Tim’s commitment to EMS and his community has only grown stronger, leading him to become a seasoned leader in the field.
In 1994, Tim became the Managing Director of Burholme EMS, where he guided the organization through a major transition from a volunteer-based service to a professional career staff, ensuring the delivery of high-quality emergency care. Throughout his 30 years of leadership, Tim has spearheaded numerous initiatives to improve mobile healthcare access, including collaborating with Einstein Hospital to launch a Community Paramedic Program and establishing the Burholme EMS Training Institute, where he has mentored future EMS professionals. Tim has also maintained his clinical credentials—including National Registered EMT, Pennsylvania Certified EMS Instructor, and Registered Respiratory Care Practitioner—demonstrating his ongoing dedication to patient care and professional excellence.
A visionary leader, Tim recognized the need for collaboration to enhance EMS services. He was instrumental in orchestrating the merger between Burholme First Aid Corps and VMSC Emergency Medical Services, which expanded access to advanced life support and mobile health services in Philadelphia and Montgomery County, ensuring sustainable, high-quality care for the community.
In addition to his roles at Burholme and VMSC, Tim contributes significantly to the EMS field at the state level. He serves as Director, Treasurer, and Board Member of the Pennsylvania Ambulance Association and as Secretary/Treasurer and Board Member of the PA EMS Providers Foundation. His involvement with the Pennsylvania Health Emergency Services Council further underscores his commitment to advancing EMS statewide.
Tim’s dedication extends beyond EMS into his personal life. An active member and trustee of Lawndale Baptist Church, he also serves as a Board Member and Quality Assurance Committee Chair for The Philadelphia Protestant Home. In his hometown of Cheltenham Township, he participates in the Emergency Management Team and chairs the Historical La Mott Architectural Review Board, contributing to his community’s safety and heritage. Tim has been married to his wife Lisa for 27 years, embodying the values of family, community, and service.
For his lifelong dedication, visionary leadership, and commitment to enhancing emergency medical services, VMSC Emergency Medical Services proudly nominates Timothy C. Hinchcliff as a 2024 Star of Life.
Jon Hibbard has been an essential part of Action Ambulance Service, Inc. for over two years, bringing with him an impressive 45 years of experience in the EMS industry. During his time with Action Ambulance, Jon has quickly risen through the ranks, taking on pivotal roles such as Field Operations Supervisor, Pediatric Emergency Care Coordinator, Clinical Manager, PIF Coordinator and Critical Care Paramedic. His leadership and expertise have been instrumental in improving both patient care and operational efficiency.
In addition to his work at Action Ambulance, Jon has served as the EMS Officer for the Bradley International Airport Fire Department, the Warehouse Point Fire Department, and has worked nearly 30 years as a Paramedic for the GPA Travelers Championship Golf Tournament, further highlighting his dedication to emergency services. His vast experience and commitment to his profession have had a profound impact on the communities he serves.
When Jon isn’t working, he enjoys spending time with his wife Ashley and three children—Jeffrey, Jameson, and Kensington. Action Ambulance Service is proud to honor Jon Hibbard as our 2024 Star of Life, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the EMS field and his unwavering dedication to his community.
Lori Peterson, a Paramedic and Field Training Officer at Medstar Ambulance, is recognized by her peers for her exceptional dedication to patient care and unwavering support for her colleagues. Known for treating every patient as if they were a member of her own family, Lori’s compassionate approach is a hallmark of her work.
In addition to providing top-notch care, Lori serves as a valuable resource for both new and experienced EMS personnel, as well as local first responders and hospital staff. Her knowledge and willingness to share her expertise make her an integral part of the team. Lori is always there to lend a hand, whether someone is facing personal or professional challenges, and she consistently brings a positive, caring attitude to every shift.
Lori’s exemplary behavior and willingness to go above and beyond for her patients and colleagues have earned her the respect and admiration of all who work with her. Medstar Ambulance is proud to nominate Lori Peterson as a 2024 Star of Life, recognizing her outstanding contributions to EMS and her community.
Kylend Hetherington of Medstar Ambulance was nominated by his peers as a Star of Life for his persistent positivity, dedication to patient care, and unwavering willingness to assist with anything asked of him. Known for his sharp uniform and kind-hearted approach, Kylend consistently prioritizes the needs of his patients, ensuring they receive the best care possible.
Kylend’s commitment to growth is evident in his eagerness to learn new skills, procedures, and clinical information, always striving to enhance the care he provides. He conducts himself with the utmost professionalism, whether interacting with team members, other EMS agencies, hospitals, or, most importantly, the patients he serves.
Kylend’s positive attitude and dedication to both his patients and colleagues make him a standout EMT, and Medstar Ambulance is proud to have him on the team.
Ambrose Stevens is being recognized posthumously for his unwavering dedication, selflessness, and unyielding commitment to serving others. For nearly two decades, Ambrose was a cornerstone of compassion and expertise for AMR, where he held various roles, culminating in his position as Operations Manager. His leadership was instrumental in ensuring the delivery of top-tier medical services, consistently going above and beyond to meet the needs of the caregivers he led, as well as those of the communities he served. Beyond his exemplary day-to-day service, Ambrose’s humanitarian efforts extended far beyond his normal job duties. He deployed for AMR’s Emergency Response Team to numerous disaster zones, offering his expertise and support in times of dire need. He also lent his skills to organizations like Pure Works, providing critical medical assistance in regions ravaged by conflict and natural disasters, including Burundi, Haiti, and Nepal. His contributions, both locally and globally, have undoubtedly left an enduring legacy of kindness, compassion, and clinical skill that serve as an inspiration to others.
Jason Henry, a Fire Captain Paramedic with Rural Metro Fire in Tempe, Arizona, exemplifies leadership and honor in every aspect of his role, values he strives to instill in the crews he leads. These qualities were on full display in March 2023, when Captain Henry and his crew responded to a life-threatening situation that showcased their teamwork and dedication to saving lives.
While driving on a rural road, Captain Henry witnessed a vehicle swerving erratically toward his fire engine, just before the driver lost control and crashed into a soft soil field. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Captain Henry immediately requested that firefighter and EMT Antoine Berenger assess the patient, who had suffered cardiac arrest and was in dire need of medical attention.
After the assessment, Captain Henry and his crew swiftly removed the patient from the vehicle and placed them on solid ground. There, Antoine and new paramedic Brendan McCormack began administering CPR and other critical interventions. Thanks to their quick actions, the team successfully revived the patient, ultimately saving their life.
What makes this event even more remarkable is that Antoine and his crewmates were not originally scheduled to be in the area. They had stepped in to cover the shift, yet their ability to immediately come together and work seamlessly under pressure is a testament to their professionalism and dedication to patient care. Captain Henry’s leadership was crucial in coordinating this lifesaving effort, showcasing his commitment to his team and the community he serves.
William Hehn Jr. has dedicated his career to EMS. For more than 40 years, he has advanced his training and knowledge, expanded his skillset, and pursued a variety of positions all to provide exceptional patient care and customer service.
Will joined REMSA Health in 1994. Prior to that, he worked as an AEMT in central California and attended community college. He started with REMSA Health as a Communications Specialist (CS) and Air Communications Specialist (ACS)—one of a handful of people cross-trained in both disciplines—allowing him to serve the organization where it was most needed. Working now as a full-time ACS Preceptor. Will still works as an AEMT in the field with the Ground Operations division, as well as a Critical Care Technician for Care Flight, the organization’s critical care transport service.
Throughout his tenure, Will earned his Quality Assurance Certification from the International Academy of Emergency Dispatch (IAED), maintains his National Registry License, and has worked as a medical 9-1-1 call reviewer in support of the dispatch center’s pursuit to be an Accredited Center of Excellence. He has been a Communications Lead and Preceptor and has served as the primary Communications Specialist for major regional special events including Burning Man.
Will was recognized with an Outstanding Achievement award for his role in the Communications Center during an active shooter incident at a local school in 2013, and he earned a Meritorious Award for his contributions during the Reno Air Race crash/mass casualty incident in 2011.
Will is active with the National EMS Memorial Bike Ride in which he has nominated and participated for the past 5 years. He is an avid cyclist, plays softball, and enjoys snowboarding. He raises money to benefit the family of a deceased colleague through his Fantasy Football league. Will and Jann, his wife of 35 years, have two adult children, as well as two Canadian horses, a terrier, a cat, and a flock of chickens. Will says, “Without Jann, this recognition would not have been possible.”
“Will’s commitment to serving others through his decades of EMS work is to be commended,” says Adam Heinz, COO, REMSA Health. “He has been a reliable and important part of the REMSA Health team for many years. Will performs his work with a sense of pride and wholeheartedness and he is a well-respected colleague and team member. I am thrilled that Will is being honored and celebrated for his sincere dedication to this profession.”
