Daryl Kennedy embodies the very spirit of the EMS Star of Life. Since joining Advanced Life Systems in September 2024, he has become a valued member of our Spokane operation, setting a standard of excellence for all who serve alongside him.
A devoted single father, Dary’s ability to give his all-both at work and at home-is nothing short of remarkable. His journey in EMS began as a volunteer firefighter/EMT, where his commitment to serving others first took root. When he joined Advanced Life Systems as a full-time EMT, his dedication, skill, and compassion quickly set him apart.
In recent months, Daryl has stepped into the role of Field Training Officer, where his professionalism, empathy, and depth of knowledge have made him a cornerstone of our new employee orientations. He invests in the growth of every new EMT, ensuring they are prepared not just to do the job, but to truly serve their community.
Daryl’s impact extends far beyond the walls of our organization— every patient, family member, and colleague who interacts with him feels the strength of his character and the sincerity of his care. His nomination for the EMS Star of Life is a reflection of his leadership, his tireless work ethic, and his unwavering compassion.
Life EMS celebrates Zachary Jahnke as a 2025 Star of Life. Zachary consistently demonstrates an unwavering commitment to both personal and professional growth. He actively seeks opportunities to improve his skills, whether through formal education or by soliciting valuable feedback from peers to enhance patient care. His dedication to healthcare is evident in his willingness to mentor and train others, generously sharing his knowledge and experience to uplift the team.
Zachary takes great pride in his responsibilities and is always ready to support his colleagues, both during and outside of scheduled hours. His reliability is unmatched, frequently volunteering for extra shifts to ensure smooth operations and exceptional patient outcomes. He exemplifies the perfect blend of skill and compassion, making him a standout member of the team.
It is with great enthusiasm that Life EMS selects Zachary for the Star of Life award, as he truly embodies the ideals of excellence, dedication, and compassionate care.
Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance is proud to recognize Paramedic Brian Heisz as a Star of Life.
Born and raised in Fennimore, Wisconsin, Brian continues to live there with his wife, Jenifer, and their youngest daughter. Together they enjoy a close-knit family that also includes three adult children and one grandson. Outside of EMS, Brian and Jenifer own and operate a quilt shop in Fennimore.
Brian’s path to EMS began in 2013, when he read a local newspaper article calling for volunteer ambulance members. Inspired to serve, he joined the Fennimore Area Rescue Squad and quickly discovered his calling. He earned his Advanced EMT certification in 2022, followed by his Paramedic certification in 2024 through Gundersen’s Paramedic Trainee Program.
Today, Brian serves full-time as a Paramedic with Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance while also leading as Acting Service Director for Fennimore Area Rescue Squad. He has worked tirelessly with the medical director to implement flex staffing, ensuring a higher level of care for the residents of his community. His dedication to patient care and operational improvement exemplifies his commitment to EMS.
Brian’s service is also a family affair. His wife, Jenifer, is an Emergency Medical Responder, and their son, Nic, is a full-time Paramedic with Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance who also volunteers in Fennimore. Around their dinner table, the running joke is that EMS is the family business.
Through his leadership, compassion, and unwavering dedication to patients and colleagues, Brian has made a lasting impact on both Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance and the Fennimore community.
Pafford EMS of Louisiana is proud to recognize Paramedic Rusty Gilbert as a Star of Life. Rusty has dedicated nearly three decades to emergency medical services, earning the highest levels of clinical certification and respect through his exceptional skill, dedication, and compassion.
Throughout his career, Rusty has been unwavering in his commitment to rural communities, ensuring that patients receive world-class care regardless of their circumstances. His colleagues know him as someone who always gives 100 percent, no matter the challenge, and who does so with humility and without complaint.
Beyond his clinical excellence, Rusty has had a profound impact as an instructor and mentor. He takes every opportunity to share his knowledge with new clinicians, helping to shape the next generation of EMS professionals. Many members of the Pafford team and beyond credit their growth and confidence to his steady guidance and encouragement.
Rusty embodies the very best of EMS and the values of the Pafford Promise. His skill, leadership, and dedication to both patients and colleagues make him more than deserving of recognition as a Star of Life.
Dr. Jason Staszko has dedicated his career to service, beginning as a physician in the United States Navy from 2005 to 2008, including a deployment to Iraq as a Battalion Surgeon. Since 2013, he has provided medical direction for several EMS agencies across Wisconsin, bringing expertise, compassion, and steady leadership to the field. In July 2024, he joined Bell Ambulance as Medical Director. Since then, he has already made a significant impact by leading a collaborative team in revising the company’s patient care protocols to reflect the highest standards of modern prehospital medicine.
Dr. Staszko is not only a respected emergency physician, but also a hands-on leader who is regularly seen around Bell’s stations and riding along with crews. Known for being approachable and deeply invested in both learning and teaching, he builds strong connections with EMS professionals while ensuring they have the support and training they need to provide excellent care.
Bell Ambulance is proud to honor Dr. Jason Staszko as a 2025 Star of Life.
Since joining Bell Ambulance in 2017 as an Emergency Medical Technician, Sergey Dobrinin has impressed colleagues and patients alike with his energy, professionalism, and dedication. His calm bedside manner, paired with a no-nonsense approach, has consistently put both patients and partners at ease.
Recognized early for his skill and leadership, Sergey quickly advanced to the role of Training Officer, where he has mentored countless EMTs and Paramedics. In 2020, he completed his Paramedic education, and in March 2023, he achieved his Critical Care Paramedic certification, enabling him to respond to the most complex and high-acuity calls. From routine 911 responses to advanced interfacility transports, Sergey is trusted to deliver exceptional care in any circumstance.
Though he often flies under the radar, Sergey exemplifies Bell Ambulance’s highest mission: to be there for people in their time of greatest need. His quiet leadership, clinical excellence, and unwavering commitment to his patients and coworkers make him an outstanding recipient of the American Ambulance Association’s Star of Life honor.
Antony “Tony” Lockwood, NREMT-P, a dedicated Paramedic and Shift Supervisor at Regional Ambulance Service, has been selected as a Star of Life for his unwavering commitment to patients, the service, and his community.
Tony’s EMS career began 10 years ago, with the last 8 years spent at RAS, where he advanced to Paramedic and then to Shift Supervisor. He consistently demonstrates compassion and commitment to those in his care, the communities he serves, and his colleagues.
Beyond his professional duties, Tony is a volunteer at his local Fire Department and serves as the Assistant Chief for Pittsford First Response. He is also a devoted husband and father who cherishes time with his family and enjoys traveling.
Regional Ambulance Service is proud to have Tony Lockwood representing them, embodying their motto of “Serving People First with Pride, Proficiency and Professionalism.”
Life EMS Ambulance is honored to recognize Paramedic Courtney De Weese as a Star of Life. With more than nine years of dedicated service, Courtney exemplifies the organization’s core values of clinical excellence, leadership, skill, and compassion delivered with dignity and respect.
Courtney has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to both her patients and her colleagues. She maintains composure in high-pressure situations, makes sound clinical decisions in critical moments, and inspires her peers to achieve their best. Beyond her exceptional patient care, Courtney has contributed to training, policy development, and the successful implementation of the Behavioral Health Transport (BHT) program, which has enhanced both patient outcomes and provider safety.
She is widely regarded as the first to step up when help is needed—whether mentoring new hires, covering extra shifts, supporting colleagues after challenging calls, or stepping in during times of leadership transition. Her willingness to serve others and her steady presence have made her a cornerstone of the Life EMS team.
What truly sets Courtney apart is her heart. She embodies the spirit of a servant-leader, carrying the weight of the job with humility, lifting up those around her, and never losing sight of the humanity behind the uniform. Her dedication, courage, and leadership have left an indelible mark on her colleagues, her patients, and the community she serves.
Life EMS Ambulance proudly celebrates Paramedic Courtney De Weese as a Star of Life.
Naomi Crittendon exemplifies the spirit and resilience of the EMS profession. Since joining Olympic Ambulance in April 2023, she has quickly become a cornerstone of the Pierce County medic unit, balancing full-time fieldwork with her ongoing education as a student. Her dedication to both patient care and team development is nothing short of inspiring.
Naomi plays a pivotal role in onboarding new hires, guiding them from day one through field readiness with clarity, confidence, and compassion. She actively contributes to New Employee Orientation, teaching key components with a depth of knowledge that reflects her mastery of the craft. Her peers consistently recognize her not just for her technical skill, but for her integrity, adaptability, and unwavering support.
Often described as the “universal EMT,” Naomi thrives in any situation-whether it’s a high-acuity call or a complex team dynamic. She approaches every challenge with a solution-focused mindset and a calm, capable presence. Her passion for patient care is matched only by her commitment to the well-being of her colleagues.
Naomi Crittendon is a rising star whose impact is already deeply felt across the organization. Her nomination for the EMS Stars of Life is a tribute to her excellence, leadership, and the future she’s helping shape in emergency medical services.
Samantha Mahan began her career with Cataldo in January 2017 as an EMT. In June 2022, she advanced to paramedic, continuing to demonstrate the same steady commitment she has shown throughout her time here.
She currently serves as a Field Training Officer, where she provides guidance and support to new paramedics. Sam has consistently been dependable, often stepping in to pick up extra shifts when needed. Clinically, she is reliable and professional, handling her responsibilities without issue.
What stands out most is her willingness to share her knowledge and experience. She approaches training with patience and consistency, helping new providers develop their skills and confidence. Her role as both a clinician and mentor reflects the qualities we value in our organization.
Samantha has been a solid contributor to the team since joining Cataldo, and her continued dedication makes her a strong candidate for the American Ambulance Association’s Star of Life Award.
Kathleen “Kat” Benoit came to EMS later in life, starting with Cataldo in October 2020 as an EMT. From the beginning she showed a clear willingness to learn and a drive to be the best provider she could be. She leaned on those around her to grow in the field and quickly established herself as a reliable member of the team.
Her passion for her new career led her to paramedic school, and in 2022 she earned her medic certification. Since then, she has worked on one of our busiest ALS trucks, consistently showing up ready to work and approaching each shift with a positive attitude.
During this past winter, Kat was involved in a particularly difficult call where a child was born in arrest while the mother still had a heroin needle in her arm. Kat handled the situation with composure under extreme pressure. Her quick and precise actions contributed directly to saving the child and mother’s life.
Kat is also known for her steady presence and reliability. She shows up week after week on a demanding assignment, never complains, and takes each call as it comes. Her commitment, both in critical moments and in the day-to-day, makes her Cataldo’s 2025 Star of Life.
Jonathan Bell began his Emergency Medical Services (EMS) career in 2017 as a volunteer in his hometown of Des Arc. The following year, he joined Metropolitan Emergency Medical Service (MEMS) as an Emergency Medical Technician and advanced to become a National Registered Paramedic, graduating from the MEMS Paramedic Academy in 2024.
Jonathan is passionate about serving his community and has contributed to multiple MEMS teams and initiatives, including the Amateur Radio Communications Team, the Honor Guard, the Bike Team, and local outreach projects. His colleagues describe him as “a genuinely dedicated EMS professional who walks the walk of a seasoned Paramedic and lives his Christian faith in his day-to-day life and profession.”
Outside of EMS, Jonathan enjoys homesteading, hands-on building projects, entrepreneurship, and participating in HAM radio events. He is also deeply committed to his family. He and his wife, Alaura, are raising three sons—Sean, Lucas, and Samuel, ages nine through nine months—who inspire his dedication to both professional growth and community service.
Metropolitan Emergency Medical Service is proud to recognize Jonathan Bell as a Star of Life.
Sara Sanders grew up in Ballston Spa, New York, with her parents and two older brothers. From a young age, she felt called to a life of service, first imagining a future as a veterinarian because of her love for animals. While pursuing her college studies, however, she realized her true passion lay in helping people. That realization, combined with encouragement from her mother, a registered nurse, inspired her to pursue a career in emergency medical services.
Sara’s path to EMS was also shaped by personal experience. Diagnosed with Von Willebrand’s disease as a child, she spent significant time in hospitals and was deeply moved by the compassion of the caregivers who supported her. She also recalls the EMS providers who cared for her during medical emergencies and transports, leaving her with a lasting impression of the dedication and kindness of first responders.
Since joining Mohawk Ambulance Service, Sara has found both a career and a family. She credits her colleagues with helping her grow into the clinician she is today and says that EMS has shown her “the worst of the worst and the best of the best,” while surrounding her with an amazing network of support. Looking ahead, Sara plans to further her training by becoming a Paramedic and ultimately hopes to earn her RN license.
Mohawk Ambulance Service is honored to celebrate Sara Sanders as a Star of Life for her compassion, resilience, and commitment to the patients and communities she serves.
Mohawk Ambulance Service proudly recognizes Paramedic Alyssa McMullen as a Star of Life.
Born in Yonkers, New York, and raised in Saratoga Springs, Alyssa began her career in healthcare in 2015 as a Patient Care Technician in the Critical Care Department at Albany Memorial Hospital. While she valued her time caring for critically ill patients, Alyssa soon discovered that the hospital setting was not where she felt most at home.
In December 2018, Alyssa enrolled in the EMT program at Hudson Valley Community College. Like many who find their calling in EMS, she quickly fell in love with the work and never looked back. She went on to complete HVCC’s Paramedic program, graduating in the fall of 2020.
Although she did not come from a family of first responders, Alyssa has always had strong support from her loved ones. Her mother, brother, and stepfather have encouraged her from day one, and she carries with her the memory of her late father, who passed away when she was 17. Alyssa shares that, while her father was not the reason she entered EMS, she believes he would be proud of her accomplishments today.
When she is not working, Alyssa enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her significant other, Justin, as well as her Mohawk Ambulance colleagues, who have become like a second family. She is known among her peers for her compassion, dedication, and warm spirit. Looking ahead, she plans to pursue her Critical Care certification and continue to grow in the career that has become her true passion.
Jeanine Hasenkopf’s EMS journey began long before she earned her first certification. Growing up in Albany, she often visited her mother at work, where she helped dispatch ambulances from a local answering service. Even as a child, she was inspired by her mother’s example of service, which included preparing holiday meals for on-duty ambulance crews and police officers. Jeanine fondly recalls “dispatching Uncle Ray” to calls, an early hint at the career path that would eventually define her.
After raising her four children, Jeanine pursued her long-standing calling to help others by becoming an Emergency Medical Technician at the age of 39. From there, she advanced quickly, completing Critical Care training, earning her Paramedic license, and serving as both a lab and course instructor. She is proud of the many students she has mentored, whom she affectionately refers to as her “kids.”
Although an injury ended her time in the field, Jeanine’s early passion for dispatch naturally resurfaced. Today, she serves as Chief Supervisor Dispatch at Mohawk Ambulance Service, where she ensures operations run smoothly and supports her team with skill and dedication. She reluctantly retired her Paramedic certification but remains deeply connected to EMS and grateful for the many colleagues who have shaped her career.
Outside of work, Jeanine enjoys tending to her garden and caring for the animals on her small hobby farm. She is blessed with four children, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Jeanine’s warmth, resilience, and lifelong commitment to service make her an extraordinary member of the Mohawk Ambulance family.
Mohawk Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Jeanine Hasenkopf as a Star of Life.
Richard Byerwalters III has dedicated his life to public service, inspired by his father, a Fire Chief and Paramedic, to pursue a career in emergency services. He began volunteering with the Ravena Hose Company and Rescue Squad in 1996 and joined Mohawk Ambulance Service in 1998. After becoming a Paramedic in 2003, Richard served in multiple roles across local agencies—including EMT, Paramedic, and SCT Paramedic—before advancing to his current position as District Chief at Mohawk Ambulance.
Richard holds degrees in Paramedicine from Hudson Valley Community College and Fire Protection Technology from SUNY Schenectady County Community College. Throughout his nearly three decades of service, he has been recognized as a skilled clinician and respected leader who always places patients, colleagues, and community first.
At home in North Greenbush, Richard enjoys life with his wife Melissa—an RN and his former ambulance partner—their son Ricky, now a high school senior, and their pets Maggie, Ezra, and Luca. In his free time, he loves traveling, visiting theme parks (especially Walt Disney World), exploring Lake George, and discovering new corners of the Northeast.
Richard credits his mentors, colleagues, the McPartlon family, Mohawk Ambulance Service, and his loved ones for their unwavering support throughout his career. Mohawk Ambulance Service is proud to recognize District Chief and Paramedic Richard Byerwalters III as a Star of Life.
From a young age, Domingo Barboa knew he was called to serve. Growing up in Kingman, Arizona, he watched his father—a retired fire chief and Paramedic—lead with compassion and integrity. His father instilled in him the values of civic service and compassion. The stories shared by community members about his father’s impact left a lasting impression, inspiring Domingo to follow in his footsteps as a second-generation first responder.
Today, Domingo serves as an EMT with Cascade Ambulance in Bellingham, Washington, where his dedication to patient care and calm leadership make him a standout member of the team. His journey into emergency medicine began with hands-on experience in sports medicine and clinical CNA work, laying a strong foundation for the high-acuity care he now provides on the front lines.
Domingo is known for his sharp critical thinking and steady presence in high-pressure situations. He plays a vital role in onboarding and mentoring new EMTs, helping shape the next generation of emergency medical professionals. His ability to lead with humility and confidence has earned him the respect of both colleagues and patients alike.
A valedictorian in high school, Domingo brings academic excellence and a tireless work ethic to everything he does. He is currently advancing his education in paramedicine and critical care nursing, with the goal of expanding his scope of practice in service to his community.
Cascade Ambulance is proud to recognize Domingo Barboa as a 2025 Stars of Life. In a field defined by unpredictability and urgency, Domingo remains resilient under pressure, grounded in service, and unwavering in his commitment to compassionate care.
With more than a decade of distinguished service in emergency medical services, Julianna “Juli” Wadsworth exemplifies the highest standards of leadership, clinical excellence, and compassion. Her unwavering commitment to both patients and colleagues has earned her the respect and admiration of everyone around her.
Juli has served in multiple roles throughout her EMS career, including as a supervisor, where she was responsible for guiding teams through some of the most critical decisions in high-pressure environments. During her time in leadership, she played an instrumental role in developing and implementing Olympic Ambulance’s New Employee Orientation Program, which continues to support the growth and success of providers across the organization. Her calm demeanor, integrity, and ability to balance the needs of patients, providers, and the community have made her an indispensable leader.
After advancing her clinical skills and earning her Paramedic license, Juli continued to shine as both a caregiver and mentor. Whether responding to a 911 call in the middle of the night or staying late to support a crew after a difficult shift, she consistently demonstrates humility, empathy, and selflessness. She is deeply committed to mentoring new EMS professionals and advocating for continuous improvement in patient care.
Her colleagues describe her as a steady presence who inspires those around her to deliver their best, both in and out of the field. Juli’s tireless dedication reflects the very spirit and values of the Star of Life.
Olympic Ambulance is proud to recognize Julianna Wadsworth as a Star of Life!
Written by Emily Nichols on . Posted in Uncategorized.
Jon “Forrest” Mullaly has dedicated more than two decades to emergency medical services, embodying the very best of what it means to be a clinician, colleague, and leader. Known for his selflessness, empathy, and ability to bring light even in the darkest moments, Jon is a trusted presence both in the field and among his peers.
Throughout his career, Jon has demonstrated clinical excellence, leadership, and compassion on countless calls. One particularly memorable incident involved a young woman in severe respiratory distress. From the street, Jon could see she was cyanotic. Without hesitation, he and his partner quickly moved her into the ambulance and began advanced interventions—including subcutaneous epinephrine, magnesium infusion, and continuous albuterol. By the time they arrived at the hospital, the patient was speaking in full sentences, alive because of Jon’s decisive care.
Jon’s dedication also extends beyond patient care. When a crew in Waltham was dispatched to their first pediatric cardiac arrest, Jon was off duty. Hearing the call unfold, he drove to the hospital—not as a responder, but as a supporter. He knew the weight of such an experience and arrived simply to listen, comfort, and remind his peers they were not alone.
In another call, Jon and his partner responded to a cardiac arrest at a YMCA in Melrose. Thanks to staff members trained in CPR and AED use, the patient had already received lifesaving interventions. Jon and his partner stabilized and transported the patient to the hospital in remarkably good condition. For Jon, who also teaches CPR and first aid, this was a powerful reminder of the importance of community training—and he went out of his way to commend the YMCA staff for their heroic actions.
These moments reflect the essence of Jon Mullaly as a Paramedic: technically skilled, calm under pressure, deeply compassionate, and profoundly supportive of both patients and peers. Armstrong Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Jon “Forrest” Mullaly as a Star of Life.
Written by Emily Nichols on . Posted in Uncategorized.
Emma’s EMS journey began in 2020, just weeks after graduating high school. Originally preparing to start nursing school, she made a last-minute decision that would change the course of her life. Inspired by her father, a retired firefighter paramedic whose stories of service had long captured her imagination, Emma followed her instincts, withdrew from nursing, and enrolled in EMT school the very same day.
Since then, Emma has dedicated the past five years to serving her community with professionalism, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. She quickly earned a reputation for her strong clinical skills, sound judgment, and calm leadership in even the most challenging circumstances. These qualities have been tested time and again—on calls where the outcome was uncertain and where her actions made all the difference.
In early December 2023, Emma responded to a devastating motor vehicle accident involving multiple pedestrians, including a detail police officer and a utility worker who had both sustained catastrophic injuries. Faced with a chaotic and heartbreaking scene, Emma’s training and composure guided her as she performed critical lifesaving measures, including applying tourniquets in an attempt to control massive bleeding. Though the outcome was tragically not what anyone had hoped for, Emma’s response demonstrated the resilience, determination, and courage it takes to serve in EMS. She continues to carry the weight of that day as a reminder of the profound responsibility of her profession—and the strength it demands of those who answer the call.
Not long after, Emma found herself on the other end of the spectrum of emergency medicine, responding to a 45-year-old pregnant woman suffering from placenta previa who had already lost nearly a liter of blood. Recognizing the urgency, Emma and her partner initiated advanced life support measures that stabilized both the mother and her unborn child long enough to reach the hospital. There, an emergency C-section was performed, and thanks in part to Emma’s swift and skilled interventions, both mother and baby survived. It was a powerful reminder of the impact prehospital providers can have, and a testament to Emma’s expertise under pressure.
Emma also serves as a SWAT Paramedic with the Northeastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council (NEMLEC), a consortium of 68 police departments and two Sheriff’s Departments across Middlesex and Essex Counties. NEMLEC supports more than 1.7 million residents in 925 square miles, providing specialized services such as hostage rescues and armed standoffs. Emma’s role on the SWAT team highlights her expertise and commitment to serving in the most high-risk situations.
Beyond her work in the field, Emma has embraced opportunities to mentor new EMTs and paramedics, educate students, and collaborate with colleagues across surrounding municipalities. Her dedication to developing others has strengthened the EMS community and helped shape the next generation of providers.
Her leadership and commitment to growth led to her promotion as a Field Supervisor—making her one of the youngest in the organization’s history. Now serving as a Field Operations Manager, she continues to lead with maturity, compassion, and determination. It is this combination of skill, resilience, and leadership—shaped by both the triumphs and the tragedies of her career—that makes Emma Beaupre a truly deserving recipient of this award.
