Ashley Miranda has been an Emergency Medical Technician with Hunter’s Ambulance Service since 2013. In her more than a decade of service, Ashley has consistently demonstrated extraordinary dedication to both her patients and her colleagues.
She is widely recognized as a natural mentor, frequently guiding new employees as they transition into the demanding world of EMS. Even though she is not a formal Field Training Officer, Ashley readily steps into that role, helping new team members build confidence and skill. Her coworkers often note that she fills in the gaps where classroom instruction ends, ensuring that her colleagues are well-prepared for the field.
Ashley’s compassion, professionalism, and steady presence have made her an invaluable part of Hunter’s Ambulance Service. Whether responding to calls or supporting a teammate, she leads by example with her calm demeanor and unwavering commitment to patient care.
Hunter’s Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Ashley Miranda as a Star of Life.
Hall Ambulance Service proudly recognizes Paramedic William Miles as a Star of Life for his exemplary service, quick thinking, and compassion under extraordinary circumstances.
William began his EMS career with Hall Ambulance in June 2020 and is currently assigned to an Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulance at the Hall Ambulance substation located at the Mojave Air and Space Port. His colleagues know him for his calm professionalism, dedication to patient care, and ability to work seamlessly alongside partner agencies.
On the afternoon of July 16, Paramedic Miles was dispatched as part of a multi-unit response to a scene in Rosamond, California. Arriving as the third ambulance, he encountered a highly unusual and difficult situation: two patients were in cardiac arrest, including one of his coworkers. Despite the emotional strain of the moment, Miles immediately focused on supporting the resuscitation of the original patient. Working in coordination with Kern County Fire Department Engine 15 and fellow Hall Ambulance personnel, he provided critical interventions with skill and composure. His actions ensured that life-saving measures were carried out effectively in an extraordinarily complex and stressful environment.
Beyond his clinical excellence, William is admired for his steadfast commitment to the communities of eastern Kern County. He is described by peers as a reliable partner, a caring caregiver, and someone who can be counted on to rise to any occasion.
Hall Ambulance Service is honored to recognize Paramedic William Miles as a Star of Life.
Sarah Stump serves as Supervisor of Communications, Dispatch, and Billing at Spirit EMS, where her leadership and dedication have made her an invaluable part of the organization’s success. In her primary role, she oversees dispatch and billing operations, trains new personnel, provides continuing education, and ensures seamless daily functions that directly impact both patient care and the financial well-being of the service.
A key member of the leadership team, Sarah has been instrumental in the operational excellence that helped Spirit EMS earn the prestigious Ohio EMS Agency of the Year award. She regularly attends state and national conferences to stay current on Medicare, Medicaid, and dispatch practices, bringing that knowledge back to her team. Her communication skills extend beyond the office—she guides emergency callers with calm expertise, trains hospital staff on transport software to improve response times, and, when needed, steps into the field as an Advanced EMT provider.
Sarah’s colleagues have twice recognized her as Spirit EMS Supervisor of the Year, honoring her in both 2023 and 2024. She also represents the company at community events, including STEM D2 panels, where she inspires young people—especially women—to pursue careers in EMS.
She holds Advanced EMT certifications in Indiana and Ohio, serves part-time with the Union City Fire Department, and is currently enrolled in a paramedic program through Reid Health. In addition, Sarah maintains multiple certifications in dispatch and billing and has recently tested to become a state-certified EMS instructor.
Beyond her professional life, Sarah is devoted to her family. She and her husband, Shelby, are raising three teenagers on their farm, where they care for horses and a lively flock of chickens. With her family’s support, she continues to pursue her education and enjoy hobbies such as photography. Known for her compassion, determination, and love of community, Sarah is a shining example of the spirit of EMS.
Spirit EMS is proud to recognize Sarah Stump as a 2025 Star of Life!
Hall Ambulance Service is proud to honor EMT Osvaldo Michel as a Star of Life.
Osvaldo began his EMS career with Hall Ambulance in November 2022 and is assigned to the company’s substation at the Mojave Air and Space Port. From his first days on the job, he has been known as a dependable and steady team member, dedicated to providing excellent care to the communities of Eastern Kern County.
On the afternoon of July 16, 2025, Osvaldo responded as the third ambulance dispatched to a cardiac arrest in Rosamond, California. Upon arrival, he encountered an extraordinary scene: two patients in full cardiac arrest, one of whom was a fellow Hall Ambulance Paramedic. Rising to the challenge, Osvaldo worked alongside his Paramedic partner, Kern County Fire Department Engine 15 personnel, and other Hall Ambulance team members to provide advanced life-saving efforts. While his colleagues focused on resuscitating their fallen coworker, Osvaldo demonstrated composure and professionalism by assisting with the original patient’s care, ensuring that no one was left behind in this unprecedented dual crisis.
Osvaldo’s calm demeanor, teamwork, and commitment under pressure reflect the highest ideals of emergency medical services. In one of the most difficult moments an EMS professional can face, he upheld the mission of Hall Ambulance with compassion, skill, and courage.
Hall Ambulance Service is proud to recognize EMT Osvaldo Michel as a Star of Life for his dedication and exemplary service to both his patients and his colleagues.
Hall Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Paramedic Supervisor Shrey Patel as a Star of Life.
Shrey joined Hall Ambulance in April 2016, where he quickly established himself as a skilled and compassionate clinician. Today, he serves as Supervisor for the Mojave Desert and mountain communities of Eastern Kern County, supporting crews in some of the most challenging and remote environments in the region.
On the afternoon of July 16, Shrey was monitoring radio traffic when he heard one of his crews dispatched to a cardiac arrest. Moments later, he learned that the situation had escalated—one of his own Paramedics, Ken Robesky, had collapsed while treating the original patient. Without hesitation, Shrey initiated a Code 3 response. Upon arrival, he found Kern County Fire Department personnel and fellow Hall Ambulance staff working valiantly to save their colleague. Shrey immediately joined the effort, assisting with resuscitation while coordinating care for both patients. He worked side by side with multiple ambulance crews and fire personnel, ultimately helping to provide advanced life support interventions until care could be transferred at Antelope Valley Medical Center.
Shrey’s actions that day reflect the very best of EMS leadership: calm under pressure, clinical excellence, and an unwavering commitment to his team and patients alike. His ability to step in during a moment of crisis and provide both hands-on care and supervisory support embodies the mission and values of Hall Ambulance.
Hall Ambulance Service proudly honors Paramedic Supervisor Shrey Patel as a Star of Life for his dedication, leadership, and outstanding service to his colleagues and community.
John Pagonis, an exemplary EMT, has dedicated himself to Emergency Medical Services with a profound sense of purpose. His commitment to service was deeply forged by the events of September 11th; shifting from a career on Wall Street, John sought a more direct way to contribute, joining his volunteer fire department in 2002 before bringing his expertise to Northwell Health in 2009. This spirit of service is deeply rooted, as John is also a proud Gulf War veteran of the Air Force.
Beyond his frontline duties, John’s dedication extends to shaping the future of EMS. He is actively involved in Northwell’s training department, sharing his knowledge and experience with new generations of providers, he is a road preceptor where he helps new employees bridge the gaps between the classroom and the ambulance. Additionally serves on the Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team, offering vital support to colleagues after traumatic events.
Among his many impactful moments, a particular highlight was the profound experience of meeting a cardiac arrest survivor he had treated, a powerful reunion that took place at an FDNY service on Randalls Island. This personal connection underscores the life-changing impact of his dedicated work.
When not on duty, John cherishes time spent with his wife and children. He finds relaxation and joy in fishing and spending time at the beach, as well as working around the house. He also enjoys traveling, a destination that stands out as one of his favorites is Diego Garcia Island.
John Pagonis’s journey from a civilian career to a dedicated EMT, fueled by patriotism and a desire to serve, exemplifies the highest ideals of emergency medicine. His unwavering commitment and compassion to patients, colleagues and the communities he serves in make him truly deserving of this recognition.
Northwell EMS is proud to honor John Pagonis as a 2025 American Ambulance Association Star of Life, celebrating his exceptional contributions to EMS and his community.
Pafford EMS proudly recognizes Eva Matyus-Bailey as a Star of Life for her unwavering dedication, professionalism, and clinical excellence. Throughout her career, Eva has exemplified the highest standards of emergency medical services, setting a powerful example for both her peers and the broader EMS community.
Known for her integrity, compassion, and tireless work ethic, Eva elevates the standards of everyone around her. As a Paramedic, she consistently demonstrates a steadfast commitment to patient care and operational excellence, earning deep respect from colleagues, community members, and healthcare partners alike.
Beyond her clinical role, Eva is a gifted mentor who plays a pivotal part in shaping the next generation of EMS professionals. As a preceptor, she is patient, supportive, and passionate about education. She leads by example, modeling the values of professionalism, empathy, and skill that define the very best in EMS.
Eva’s service has been recognized with numerous commendations from patients, families, and hospital staff, all of whom praise her dedication and compassion. Her influence extends far beyond the ambulance, fostering collaboration, teamwork, and excellence across her entire organization.
In every sense, Eva Matyus-Bailey embodies the spirit of the Star of Life. Her contributions to Pafford EMS and to the EMS profession as a whole make her an extraordinary representative of this honor.
Paul Lopez began his Emergency Medical Services career in 1991 as an Emergency Medical Technician in Los Angeles County. Over more than three decades of service, he has contributed his expertise to multiple organizations, steadily building a reputation as a trusted professional and leader. Today, he brings that wealth of experience to Falck Los Angeles, where he serves with distinction as Dispatch Manager.
Paul’s EMS journey led him from the field into communications, with early roles in Los Angeles and San Diego before stepping into his current leadership role. He is being recognized for his outstanding leadership and for cultivating a culture of honor, trust, and accountability within the dispatch center. His leadership philosophy is rooted in leading by example—demonstrating every day the values he expects from his team.
By empowering his colleagues through trust, encouraging professional growth, and fostering an environment where people feel supported and valued, Paul has created a high-performance culture. Under his steady guidance, the division has seen marked improvements in performance metrics and teamwork. He also played a pivotal role in the successful implementation of the LOGIS dispatch system, ensuring a smooth transition through clear communication, careful planning, and unwavering support for his staff.
Paul’s influence extends beyond operational improvements; he has set the tone for integrity, teamwork, and pride in service. His example shows that true leadership is not about position, but about action. Falck USA is proud to recognize Paul Lopez as a Star of Life.
For Aaron Pearce, serving the people of Pinellas County is deeply personal. Born and raised in Pinellas County, FL, he grew up watching Sunstar Paramedics serve his hometown. To Aaron, Sunstar wasn’t just an EMS agency, it was his EMS agency. So, when it came time to choose a career, there was no question that he wanted to give back to the same community that shaped him.
Aaron joined Sunstar in February of 2020, drawn by the unique mix of challenges and purpose that the EMS profession offers—the chance to blend healthcare and public service in a way that changes lives. From the very beginning, he poured himself into every opportunity to gain experience. He started as an EMT, went on to become a Field Training Officer, earned recognition as Pinellas County’s EMT of the Year in 2021, and advanced to Paramedic. Each step reflected his drive, his discipline, and his determination to serve.
If you ask Aaron, the true reward isn’t in titles or awards—it’s in the trust of his peers. He takes pride in being the teammate others know they can turn to for guidance, encouragement, or simply support on a tough day. As a Field Training Officer, he has embraced the responsibility of shaping new providers, giving them the confidence and skills they need to succeed. His vision is simple but powerful: to strengthen the FTO program so that every new hire feels prepared, valued, and capable of delivering excellent care, paving the way to better the profession and the organization.
Aaron often reflects on the mentors who pushed him to grow, who challenged him to be better, and who believed in him along the way. Now, he carries those lessons forward, offering the same encouragement to the next generation of EMS professionals.
Along the way, Aaron has also grown in how he connects with others—both inside and outside of Sunstar. With hospital partners, first responders, and community stakeholders, he has built a reputation for professionalism, respect, and teamwork.
In his own words, Aaron loves the diverse and dedicated people who unite around the shared goal of helping others. And in turn, Sunstar is stronger for having him as part of the team. This is what makes him Sunstar’s choice for the 2025 Stars of Life.
Jeff Kaufman has dedicated more than 30 years of his life to emergency medical services, beginning as a volunteer EMT in his hometown of Freeman, South Dakota. Recognizing his calling to further serve his community, Jeff pursued Paramedic training and began his career in December 2001.
For more than two decades as a Paramedic, Jeff has consistently demonstrated clinical excellence, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to patient care. Among his many achievements, he was the first in his system to successfully perform a surgical cricothyrotomy, saving the life of a car accident victim through his rapid recognition, decisive action, and exceptional skill.
Beyond his clinical contributions, Jeff has served as a mentor and role model for countless EMS professionals. His ability to teach, guide, and inspire others has left a lasting impact on the growth and professionalism of those who follow in his footsteps. The profound respect he receives from peers, colleagues, and leaders alike speaks volumes about both his character and his dedication to EMS.
Jeff’s leadership has extended beyond the field. During his tenure with PatientCare EMS, he has served in key roles including Field Training Officer, Operations Supervisor, Director of Operations, and now as the Director of Logistics & Mobility. In each position, Jeff has exemplified integrity, vision, and service to both his patients and his fellow EMS professionals.
PatientCare EMS is proud to recognize Jeff Kaufman as a Star of Life. His career reflects the very best of EMS—selfless service, exceptional skill, and an enduring commitment to others.
Ryan Horowitz began his EMS career in 2004 as an EMT in Orange County. After gaining valuable field experience, he transitioned to the Communications Department, where his leadership journey truly took shape. Starting as a dispatcher, Ryan quickly advanced to Communications Training Officer, then supervisor, and now serves as Dispatch Manager.
Ryan’s commitment to service is unwavering. He believes that every emergency call deserves the fastest possible response and takes personal responsibility for ensuring ambulances are dispatched with speed, precision, and urgency. His leadership is rooted in a deep sense of duty to the communities he serves.
Always looking ahead, Ryan embraces innovation and has been a strong advocate for using advanced technologies—including artificial intelligence—to improve ambulance positioning and optimize response times. His forward-thinking approach continues to drive measurable improvements in system efficiency.
Ryan’s impact was especially evident during the recent system upgrade to LOGIS. Under his guidance, the transition was seamless and resulted in numerous operational enhancements. His leadership, vision, and ability to foster a culture of duty, pride, and accountability have strengthened the dispatch center and the entire operation.
Known for leading by example, Ryan inspires his team and remains a driving force behind the mission to deliver timely, life-saving care. Falck USA is proud to recognize Ryan Horowitz as a Star of Life.
Jonathan Tseng, Falck’s QA/QI Specialist, brings a unique blend of clinical experience and analytical expertise to his work—driven by a strong passion for improving the experience of both patients and healthcare providers. With nine years of experience as a 911 EMT in Orange and Riverside Counties, Jonathan has seen firsthand the challenges faced by patients and providers in the field. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business economics from the University of California, Riverside, and uses his academic background to take a thoughtful, data-informed approach to quality improvement. Jonathan is deeply committed to making a positive impact. He consistently seeks ways to enhance clinical care, support his colleagues, and improve outcomes for the patients we serve. His work reflects a strong belief in using data not just for numbers—but for meaningful, people-centered change. Two notable areas where Jonathan’s efforts have driven innovation and made a real difference are the development of Sensory Support Bags for neurodiverse patients and the creation of a Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) response structure. In partnership with the Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC), Jonathan reviewed clinical data and helped implement sensory support bags across our system, providing comfort and reducing stress for patients with sensory processing needs. He also played a key role in strengthening our CISM response by creating a reporting system that flags potential critical incidents, enabling timely peer support and intervention for field staff following difficult calls. Jonathan’s dedication to service, his empathy for patients, and his innovative use of data continue to make a lasting impact on our organization and the communities we serve. We are proud to nominate Jonathan as a 2025 Star of Life!
Originally from Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, Captain Paramedic Will Gardam came to the United States in 2024 to pursue his dream of serving others through emergency medical services. Within just four months of joining Spirit EMS, his dedication and skill earned him a promotion to Captain, making him the immediate supervisor of field crews serving rural Ohio. His leadership is marked by professionalism, compassion, and unwavering commitment to both patients and colleagues.
A graduate of St. Joseph’s College, Ferntree Gully, and the Australian Catholic University with a Bachelor of Paramedicine, Will quickly established himself as a respected leader. His promotion was celebrated in a special swearing-in and pinning ceremony attended by his parents, Wayne and Megan Gardam, who traveled from Australia to mark the milestone. His father, a flight Paramedic, reflected that what took him a decade to achieve in Australia, Will accomplished in just six months in the United States.
Will’s accomplishments continued to grow. At the Spirit EMS Christmas party, employees voted him “Supervisor of the Year,” a remarkable honor for someone so new to leadership. That same year, Spirit EMS was named Ohio’s EMS Agency of the Year, with Will playing a key role in the company’s success.
Inspired by his father’s career, Will pursued paramedicine at a young age. Knowing that only a small percentage of graduates in Australia secure full-time Paramedic positions immediately after college, he took a leap of faith at age 22 to move halfway around the world. Since arriving, he has embraced both professional and personal growth, building a life of service in his new community.
Outside of work, Will enjoys golf, attending church, and spending time with friends—his “mates.” He has stood as a groomsman for several weddings during his short time in the U.S., reflecting the strong personal connections he has built. He has also found joy in his relationship with his girlfriend, Maddison, and has embraced a father-figure role for her two young sons, Carson and Chandler.
Spirit EMS is proud to recognize Captain Paramedic Will Gardam as a Star of Life for his rapid professional achievements, compassionate leadership, and steadfast devotion to his patients, his colleagues, and his adopted community.
Krystal Daymonde has dedicated more than a decade to serving the community as a Paramedic with Hunter’s Ambulance, following her earlier years of service as an Emergency Medical Technician. Known for her skill, compassion, and professionalism, Krystal has become a cornerstone of her agency’s clinical excellence.
As a Paramedic Field Instructor, Krystal plays a vital role in training and evaluating new Paramedics. Her calm guidance and strong mentorship have shaped the careers of many who now serve alongside her. She is consistently recognized for her outstanding clinical performance, earning the respect of her peers and the gratitude of her patients.
In addition to her EMS credentials, Krystal is also a Registered Nurse. This unique combination of expertise gives her a valuable perspective and strengthens her ability to deliver the highest standard of care in the most challenging situations. Her colleagues often look to her not only as a mentor but also as a trusted clinical leader.
Hunter’s Ambulance is proud to recognize Krystal Daymonde as a Star of Life.
When Spirit EMS of Greenville, Ohio, deployed three ambulances to Florida in response to Hurricane Debby, their crews could not have imagined that a breakdown would lead them to meet a true guardian angel. After experiencing back-to-back mechanical failures—first an engine failure in Kentucky and then another breakdown just 25 miles from their staging destination in Florida—Spirit EMS crewmembers Tyler Pratt and Linda Smith found themselves stranded along a busy highway with little hope of timely help. Local service providers were unavailable due to hurricane preparations, leaving the crew in a situation that felt hopeless.
That was when Corey Tucker of Century Ambulance appeared. Driving home after preparing his own company’s fleet for the impending storm, Corey noticed the occupied ambulance on the roadside. Unlike the countless vehicles that had passed before him, Corey turned around, stopped, and offered his assistance. Drawing on more than 20 years of mechanical expertise, Corey assessed the problem, safely towed the ambulance and crew to the staging area in his Century Ambulance tow truck, and left them with his phone number and a detailed plan for the necessary repairs.
The following day, when Spirit EMS was unable to find a Florida shop with the needed throttle body in stock—suppliers warned it could take weeks or even months—Corey once again stepped in. With the support of Century Ambulance leadership, he returned on company time with all required parts and repaired the ambulance himself. Even more remarkably, when Spirit EMS asked who to compensate, Corey and the Century Ambulance administration responded, “You don’t owe us a thing. Thanks for coming to help us and the people of Florida in our time of need.”
Thanks to Corey’s generosity, Spirit EMS was able to continue its disaster relief mission without the enormous challenge of transporting a broken ambulance more than 1,100 miles back to Ohio. What began as a moment of despair became a powerful example of EMS teamwork, compassion, and selflessness.
Spirit EMS and Century Ambulance are proud to recognize Corey Tucker as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life for his extraordinary service, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to helping others in their time of need.
Sunstar Paramedics proudly recognizes Paramedic and Field Training Officer Kayla Alderman as a Star of Life for her dedication, compassion, and leadership.
Originally from Tallahassee, Kayla found her calling in EMS early, beginning as a student rider in high school while earning her Emergency Medical Responder certification. Inspired by generations of family members who served as firefighters, EMS providers, health care professionals, and federal law enforcement officers, she embraced a family tradition of service that continues today through her work in Pinellas County.
Kayla’s decision to join Sunstar in 2022 was deeply personal. When her uncle suffered a stroke, Sunstar Paramedics responded with exceptional care and compassion for her entire family. That moment left a lasting impression and inspired her to dedicate her career to the very team that had once cared for her loved one.
Since then, Kayla has excelled in both the BLS 911 and ALS systems, quickly becoming known as a skilled clinician and a gifted mentor. She takes great pride in guiding new clinicians, building their confidence in patient care, and fostering strong working relationships with hospitals and public safety partners. Her approach blends patience with high standards, always mindful of her responsibility to prepare the next generation of EMS professionals.
What truly sets Kayla apart is the heart she brings to every shift. Whether sharing humor with a partner, reassuring a nervous patient, or simply holding a hand to provide comfort, she embodies servant leadership in action. She credits her father for instilling the values of trust, respect, and compassion, lessons she carries into every interaction with patients and colleagues alike.
In addition to her EMS expertise, Kayla is fluent in American Sign Language, expanding her ability to ensure patients feel seen, heard, and respected. She is passionate about advancing family-centered care in EMS, working to ensure dignity and comfort for every patient during their most vulnerable moments.
Kayla Alderman exemplifies the very best of Sunstar Paramedics and the EMS profession. Her dedication, skill, and compassion make her a true Star of Life.
Life EMS is honored to nominate Jayeah Haske as a 2025 Star of Life. Jayeah Haske is a highly respected Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD) with Life EMS in Enid, Oklahoma. Since joining the emergency dispatch center in 2016, Jayeah has become an essential member of the team—known for her professionalism, compassion, and calm presence in high-stress situations. She is a Nationally Certified Emergency Medical Dispatcher through the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch and was honored as Dispatcher of the Year in 2018.
Jayeah’s natural leadership abilities are evident in her daily work. She plays a key role in training new dispatchers, willingly steps up to cover shifts when needed, and consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to the team’s success. Her reassuring voice and composed demeanor provide critical comfort to callers during emergencies, helping them feel supported and understood in their most vulnerable moments.
Outside of work, Jayeah is equally dedicated to her family. She has been married to her husband Michael for 21 years, and together they have raised three children—Zachary, Pryce, and Baylee. In her spare time, she enjoys crafting and listening to music.
Jayeah Haske exemplifies the values of service, empathy, and leadership, making her a truly deserving candidate for this award.
Eric Friedell, an exemplary EMT Communications Coordinator, has been a valued member of Northwell Health since 2019, bringing a unique blend of dedication and insight to his role. His journey into Emergency Medical Services, which began in 2017, is a testament to his desire for meaningful service. After a career in mortgages, Eric sought a more rewarding calling, leading him to volunteer as a firefighter in is community before becoming an EMT.
Serving two years on the front lines as an EMT, Eric then transitioned seamlessly to the Communications team, where he has demonstrated remarkable growth and become a trusted resource. His commitment to fostering a supportive environment is evident in his willingness to train peers. He is often described by his peers as a compassionate sounding board, knowledgeable and always there for those who need a listening ear.
Outside of his vital role, Eric finds balance and renewal in nature. He embraces the outdoors as he enjoys hiking and fishing. His adventurous spirit also fuels a long-term goal: to one day complete the entirety of the Appalachian Trail. Eric Friedell embodies the spirit of service, growth, and unwavering support, making him an invaluable asset to the Northwell Health team and a truly deserving recipient of this recognition.
Northwell EMS is proud to honor Eric Friedell as a 2025 American Ambulance Association Star of Life, celebrating his exceptional contributions to EMS and his community.
Hugh Coley is a dedicated Emergency Medical Technician who began his career in EMS in 2012 and has been a valued member of the Northwell Health team since 2015. Known for his unwavering professionalism and calm demeanor, Hugh is highly respected by both his peers and leadership alike, consistently stepping up to lend a hand to a friend, coworker, or the department whenever help is needed.
His exceptional skills and ability to perform under pressure were recently showcased in a truly extraordinary event: Hugh expertly delivered a baby girl in the front seat of a car, amidst the challenging and often chaotic environment of an FDR entrance ramp.
Beyond his demanding professional life, Hugh is a passionate aquarium hobbyist, meticulously maintaining an impressive 300 gallons’ worth of tanks at home, where the favorite of his aquatic collection is a redtail catfish named Buddha. He enjoys watching football and can be found rooting for the New York Giants. Additionally, he enjoys the thrill and strategy of NASCAR as well as the excitement of monster truck events.
Family holds a central place in Hugh’s life; he treasures time spent at social gatherings and destination reunions, which are especially meaningful given his family is spread across every state along the East Coast and Gulf states. When it comes to comfort food, his go-to is a hearty steak at Texas Roadhouse, though he’s equally content savoring fresh seafood at City Island.
Looking to the future, Hugh dreams of exploring the underwater world through scuba diving and has a distinctive goal for his 60th birthday: celebrating it behind the wheel of a blue 2022 Bentley Coupe with a gray diamond-stitched interior, reasoning that “gray hair qualifies you for that.” Hugh Coley embodies dedication, skill, and a vibrant personal life filled with family, unique hobbies, and exciting aspirations.
Northwell EMS is proud to honor Hugh Coley as a 2025 American Ambulance Association Star of Life, celebrating his exceptional contributions to EMS and his community.
Hall Ambulance is proud to recognize Emergency Medical Technician Jeremy Capps as a Star of Life. Jeremy began his EMS career with Hall Ambulance on April 5, 2011, and currently serves on an Advanced Life Support ambulance based in Rosamond, California.
On the afternoon of July 16, EMT Capps and his partner, Paramedic Ken Robesky, were dispatched to a cardiac arrest in Rosamond. While caring for the patient, Paramedic Robesky suddenly collapsed, pulseless and apneic. Jeremy remained calm under extraordinary pressure, immediately calling for additional resources and initiating life-saving efforts for both his partner and the original patient.
Working alongside Kern County Fire Department personnel, Jeremy performed CPR until reinforcements arrived. He assisted with the resuscitation of Paramedic Robesky, who was transported to advanced care, before returning to help with the original patient until resuscitative efforts were concluded.
Jeremy’s composure, quick action, and selfless dedication to both his partner and his patient in this crisis exemplify the very best of EMS. Hall Ambulance is honored to celebrate Jeremy Capps as a Star of Life.
