Kaitlyn Vandervest is a Paramedic with AMR in Grand Rapids, Michigan, whose actions during an unexpected off-duty emergency demonstrated remarkable composure, clinical judgment, and commitment to helping others.

Kaitlyn was driving home after completing her shift, still in uniform but outside AMR’s coverage area, when she came upon a major incident involving a critically injured patient. Although she was off duty, Kaitlyn immediately stepped forward to help.

As the only Paramedic on scene, Kaitlyn quickly assessed the patient, identified the severity of the injuries, and relayed critical information to incoming responders. Recognizing the need for a higher level of care, she identified the need for air transport and provided lifesaving support until the patient could be evacuated.

What makes Kaitlyn’s response even more remarkable is that she had been working independently as a Paramedic for only a matter of months. Despite being early in her Paramedic career and unexpectedly encountering a major emergency outside her normal response area, she relied on her training, remained focused, and provided the care her patient needed.

Kaitlyn’s actions demonstrate that the commitment to serve does not end when a shift is over. Her willingness to act, coupled with her clinical judgment and composure under pressure, reflects the qualities at the heart of emergency medical services. AMR is proud to recognize Paramedic Kaitlyn Vandervest as a Star of Life.

Jordan Sisneros is a Paramedic with AMR in Pueblo, Colorado, whose clinical expertise and composure under extreme conditions helped give a critically injured patient the best possible chance of survival.

Jordan responded to a traumatic emergency in which a critically injured patient remained trapped and required extrication. While crews worked to free the patient, Jordan established IV access and began providing critical treatment despite the challenging environment. As the patient’s condition required additional intervention, Jordan performed a surgical cricothyrotomy during the extrication and continued managing the patient’s rapidly evolving needs.

Once the patient was freed, Jordan continued advanced trauma care during transport to the hospital, including the administration of whole blood. His ability to begin lifesaving treatment before extrication was complete and continue advanced care en route helped bridge the critical period between injury and definitive hospital treatment.

The receiving emergency department physician summarized the significance of Jordan’s care simply: “If this patient survives, it all started with Jordan.” The patient did survive and was ultimately discharged home with no deficits.

Jordan’s actions demonstrate the clinical judgment, adaptability, and determination required to provide exceptional care when circumstances are at their most difficult. AMR is proud to recognize Paramedic Jordan Sisneros as a Star of Life.

Krista Ruley is an EMT with AMR in Washington, D.C., whose composure, professionalism, and compassion have made a meaningful difference for patients during extraordinary circumstances.

During one particularly challenging response, Krista arrived at the chaotic scene of a serious animal attack. She helped keep the animals calm and contained until additional resources arrived, then worked alongside law enforcement to safely secure and transport a severely injured patient. Trauma staff at the receiving facility later credited the swift actions of Krista and her partner, J. Perkins, with helping save the patient’s life.

In a separate incident, Krista demonstrated another important dimension of emergency medical care when she encountered a patient who had been found alone. Working with local law enforcement, Krista helped identify and locate the patient’s family, ultimately ensuring that the individual was safely reunited with loved ones.

Together, these incidents demonstrate Krista’s ability to respond effectively to very different patient needs. Whether facing a chaotic trauma scene or helping a vulnerable person find their way home, she approaches each situation with patience, sound judgment, and a commitment to doing what is best for the patient.

Krista continues to strengthen her ability to serve her community by pursuing additional training in autism-spectrum and pediatric care. Her dedication to expanding her knowledge reflects her commitment to providing thoughtful, compassionate care to patients with a wide range of needs.

AMR is proud to recognize EMT Krista Ruley as a Star of Life.

Wallace Mills is a Paramedic Supervisor with AMR in Nashua, New Hampshire, whose calm, decisive actions during a life-threatening emergency demonstrated the value of experience, clinical judgment, and courage under pressure.

Wallace responded to a patient suffering from devastating neck injuries that had severely compromised the airway. Extensive swelling and trauma made traditional intubation impossible, leaving the patient in immediate danger and requiring Wallace to make a critical decision.

Recognizing that conventional airway techniques would not succeed, Wallace determined that a highly specialized surgical procedure was necessary to establish an airway. Although he had never performed the procedure during his remarkable 44-year career, he remained composed and relied on decades of training and clinical experience.

Under extraordinary pressure, Wallace successfully performed the procedure, established an airway, and provided lifesaving ventilation throughout transport. His ability to recognize the severity of the situation, adapt when traditional interventions were no longer possible, and confidently perform a rarely needed procedure gave his patient a critical chance at survival.

After 44 years in EMS, Wallace continues to demonstrate that experience is measured not only by the number of calls answered, but also by the ability to apply a lifetime of knowledge when a patient needs it most. AMR is proud to recognize Paramedic Supervisor Wallace Mills as a Star of Life.

Ryan Horn is a Paramedic with AMR in Bridgeport, Connecticut, whose clinical leadership and decisive actions during a critical trauma response helped give a severely injured patient a greater chance of survival.

Ryan responded to a patient suffering from multiple wounds and quickly recognized the severity of the situation. As the patient’s condition rapidly deteriorated, Ryan performed a lifesaving chest decompression while aggressively managing the patient’s other critical needs.

When conventional trauma interventions were not enough, Ryan made the critical decision to administer whole blood early in the patient’s care. In doing so, he became the first provider in his region to administer whole blood in the field. The intervention represented an important advancement in prehospital trauma care and provided the patient with a potentially lifesaving resource before arrival at the hospital.

By the time the patient reached the emergency department, they were more alert and responsive. Within days, the patient was sitting up and talking. Ryan’s clinical judgment and intervention also earned recognition from the receiving hospital.

Ryan’s actions demonstrate the importance of bringing advanced trauma care closer to the patient when every minute matters. His willingness to embrace an innovative treatment, combined with his clinical expertise and composure under pressure, exemplifies the highest standards of prehospital care.

AMR is proud to recognize Paramedic Ryan Horn as a Star of Life.

Jeff Goran is an EMT with AMR in Atlanta, Georgia, whose swift and decisive actions while off duty helped save the life of a person experiencing cardiac arrest.

Jeff was off duty when he heard a bystander urgently call out, “We need a doctor,” after someone suddenly collapsed. He immediately stepped forward, assessed the patient, and determined that the individual was pulseless and not breathing. While a bystander contacted 911, Jeff took control of the scene and began lifesaving care.

Without hesitation, Jeff initiated CPR and directed others to retrieve an automated external defibrillator (AED). He continued providing high-quality chest compressions while coordinating the response and maintaining a calm, focused presence. When the AED arrived, it advised that no shock was needed, and Jeff continued managing the patient until responding EMS personnel arrived.

Because of Jeff’s rapid recognition of cardiac arrest and immediate intervention, the patient regained a pulse at the scene. His actions demonstrate that the responsibility of an EMS professional does not end when a shift does. When confronted with a life-threatening emergency, Jeff relied on his training, remained composed, and acted when someone needed him most.

Jeff’s clinical knowledge, leadership, and willingness to intervene exemplify the commitment to others that defines emergency medical services. AMR is proud to recognize EMT Jeff Goran as a Star of Life.

Colen Bishop is a Paramedic and Field Training Officer with AMR in Salem, Virginia, whose clinical expertise and composure have been demonstrated during some of the most demanding circumstances in prehospital care.

Colen is being recognized in part for his exceptional performance during two life-threatening patient transports. During the first, he independently managed a critically injured patient requiring advanced airway management and mechanical ventilation. Throughout the transport, Colen anticipated potential complications and maintained the patient’s respiratory stability while providing advanced care.

During a second critical transport, Colen was caring for a patient whose condition rapidly deteriorated en route. Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, he performed a lifesaving decompression while coordinating care with the medical team. His ability to recognize the patient’s changing condition, intervene decisively, and manage multiple priorities demonstrated clinical skill and sound judgment under pressure.

As both a Paramedic and Field Training Officer, Colen brings his experience and clinical knowledge to the development of other EMS professionals. His performance exemplifies the calm decision-making, technical expertise, and leadership required when patients are at their most vulnerable.

AMR is proud to recognize Paramedic and Field Training Officer Colen Bishop as a Star of Life.

Kiara Baum is an EMT and Field Training Officer with AMR in Syracuse, New York, who has distinguished herself through compassion, courage, emotional intelligence, and clinical skill.

Kiara demonstrated these qualities during a particularly challenging response involving a patient experiencing a crisis and facing immediate danger. Recognizing that establishing trust was critical to a safe outcome, Kiara approached the patient with patience and steady reassurance. She calmly engaged the individual, helped secure their safety, and worked alongside law enforcement officers to de-escalate the situation. Her ability to remain composed and compassionate during an emotionally charged encounter played a critical role in protecting the patient.

Kiara brings that same commitment to her colleagues and the continued development of her EMS team. In just two years with AMR, she has advanced to Field Training Officer, taking on responsibility for helping guide and develop other EMS professionals. She also serves on her operation’s Wellness Committee, supporting efforts to care for the people who dedicate themselves to caring for others.

Kiara’s actions demonstrate that exceptional EMS care requires more than clinical knowledge. It also requires empathy, communication, sound judgment, and the ability to connect with people during some of their most vulnerable moments. Through her service to both patients and colleagues, Kiara has already made a meaningful impact early in her EMS career.

AMR is proud to recognize EMT and Field Training Officer Kiara Baum as a Star of Life.

Daniel “Wesley” Brookshear II is a Critical Care Paramedic and Training Coordinator with AMR in Knoxville, Tennessee, whose leadership and commitment to community medicine are helping transform access to care for vulnerable residents of Knoxville’s Mission District.

A Critical Care Paramedic, instructor, educator, and master’s degree recipient, Wesley recognized a recurring gap in care within the Mission District, an area with historically high 911 call volume. Rather than simply responding to the same needs repeatedly, he sought a way to bring healthcare resources directly to people in the community.

Wesley launched a weekly street medicine outreach program that brings together AMR, local public health and fire agencies, and community partners. Through this collaborative effort, individuals can receive wound care, basic medical treatment, behavioral health referrals, community education, and access to naloxone.

The program has now served 610 people, with more than 140 individuals entering treatment or sober living. The initiative has also contributed to a 32 percent reduction in 911 calls within the Mission District, demonstrating the impact that proactive outreach and collaboration can have on both individual lives and the broader emergency response system.

Wesley’s approach is guided by a simple belief: “Anyone is one paycheck away from homelessness.” That perspective informs his commitment to meeting people where they are and connecting them with care, resources, and opportunities for a healthier future.

As both a clinician and educator, Wesley demonstrates how EMS professionals can improve health not only by responding to emergencies, but also by identifying unmet needs and developing solutions that strengthen entire communities. AMR is proud to recognize Critical Care Paramedic and Training Coordinator Wesley Brookshear as a Star of Life.

Shelby Costa is a Paramedic and Field Training Officer with AMR in San Diego, California, whose leadership and dedication to supporting fellow first responders have strengthened the EMS community throughout the region.

Recognizing the importance of caring for those who care for others, Shelby founded and leads a 26-member peer support team dedicated to helping colleagues through difficult and stressful experiences. Under her leadership, the team has provided critical assistance to more than 700 employees through over 500 activations, creating an important source of support for EMS professionals when they need it most.

Shelby has also worked to expand resources that promote connection and resilience among first responders. She spearheaded the introduction of the GRIN (Group and Individual Crisis Intervention) training program to the San Diego region, helping equip providers with additional tools to support colleagues experiencing challenging circumstances. She also brought the EMS Games to the region, creating another opportunity to strengthen relationships and camaraderie across the workforce.

Her leadership extends beyond AMR. As president of the San Diego EMS Association, Shelby continues to contribute her time and energy to the broader EMS community. Combined with her work as a Paramedic and Field Training Officer, these efforts demonstrate a commitment not only to excellent patient care, but also to developing, supporting, and advocating for the professionals who provide it.

Shelby’s work reflects an understanding that a strong EMS system depends on strong, supported people. Through peer support, crisis intervention training, mentorship, and professional leadership, she has helped create resources and connections that benefit hundreds of her colleagues.

AMR is proud to recognize Paramedic and Field Training Officer Shelby Costa as a Star of Life for her exceptional leadership, commitment to provider well-being, and dedication to strengthening the EMS community.

Bob Hardwick, EMT-I 99, has dedicated nearly five decades to advancing emergency medical services in South Dakota. A pioneer in the state’s EMS system, Bob has spent his career building programs, developing providers, and strengthening the profession for those who would follow him.

As the holder of South Dakota ALS license No. 15, Bob was among the earliest individuals licensed as an advanced life support provider in the state. He helped establish one of South Dakota’s first ALS ambulance services and went on to devote his career to building and strengthening EMS programs throughout the state.

Bob’s impact is measured not only by the programs he helped develop, but also by the people he has influenced. Known for his humility and servant leadership, he has consistently placed the needs of his employees, students, and coworkers ahead of his own. Through teaching and mentorship, Bob has shared decades of experience while helping prepare the next generation of EMS professionals to serve their communities.

After retiring in 2025, Bob found that his service to EMS was not yet finished. He returned to AMR in Pierre—the service he helped found—where he now works alongside his son and continues mentoring newer EMS professionals. His return represents a remarkable full-circle moment in a career devoted to building a stronger future for EMS.

Nearly five decades after beginning his journey, Bob continues to demonstrate that leadership is not defined simply by a title, but by a willingness to serve, teach, encourage, and invest in others. His legacy can be found throughout South Dakota EMS and in the generations of professionals who have benefited from his knowledge and example.

AMR is proud to recognize EMT-I 99 Bob Hardwick as a Star of Life for his pioneering contributions, servant leadership, mentorship, and extraordinary lifetime of service to emergency medical services.

Maison Hooten is a Paramedic with AMR in Pecos, New Mexico, whose leadership, clinical skill, and resourcefulness were demonstrated during a challenging wilderness rescue in remote terrain.

With no cell service available, Maison and his partner relied on GPS coordinates to help locate a critically injured patient in need of emergency care. Their response took them over damaged forest roads before conditions required them to continue on foot alongside other rescue personnel.

Once they reached the patient, Maison and his partner assessed the patient, provided treatment, and worked to stabilize the patient for a difficult evacuation. Delivering care in such a remote environment required sound clinical judgment and the ability to adapt to circumstances far different from those of a typical ambulance response.

With treatment underway, Maison and his partner joined the rescue team in securing the patient in a rescue basket. Together, they carried the patient along a narrow, muddy mountain trail until they could reach transport. Every stage of the response required close teamwork, persistence, and a shared commitment to overcoming the significant barriers between the patient and definitive medical care.

Maison’s actions demonstrate the adaptability required of EMS professionals serving communities where geography and limited access can make an already serious emergency even more challenging. His clinical judgment, teamwork, and perseverance helped bring critical emergency care directly to a patient in a location where conventional ambulance access was severely limited.

AMR is proud to recognize Paramedic Maison Hooten as a Star of Life for his leadership, resourcefulness, clinical skill, and determination to reach and care for a patient in need.

Blanca Morfin Watkins, a Paramedic with American Medical Response (AMR) in California, is being honored for her extraordinary courage and selfless actions after risking her own safety to help another in a life-threatening emergency.

When she encountered a critically injured patient lying just feet from a burning vehicle, Blanca immediately began providing care despite the imminent danger. Moments later, an explosive event occurred, exposing Blanca to the blast and causing minor injuries. Her calm under pressure, quick decision-making and unwavering commitment to helping others in an extraordinarily dangerous situation exemplify the very best of emergency service and personal bravery.

AMR is proud to recognize Paramedic Blanca Morfin Watkins as a Star of Life for her extraordinary courage, selfless actions, and unwavering commitment to helping others in their greatest moments of need.

Andre Pinkston is a Paramedic with AMR in Stone Mountain, Georgia, who brings more than 30 years of EMS experience to the patients and communities he serves. For the past 13 years, Andre has served with AMR DeKalb County, where his extensive clinical experience now contributes to an innovative approach to treating patients with severe hemorrhage.

Andre demonstrated the importance of that capability while caring for a critically injured patient following extrication. Recognizing the severity of the patient’s condition, Andre quickly established IV access, initiated lifesaving treatment, and administered a whole-blood transfusion in the field—providing critical care before the patient ever reached the hospital.

The ability to carry and administer whole blood in the prehospital setting remains uncommon among EMS agencies nationwide. Andre is assigned to AMR DeKalb County’s new Hemorrhage and Resuscitation Treatment (HART) Program, which equips EMS clinicians with lifesaving blood products for patients experiencing severe blood loss.

Andre’s response exemplified the purpose of the HART Program: bringing advanced resuscitative care directly to critically injured patients when every minute matters. His decades of experience, combined with access to this important clinical resource, allowed him to deliver a potentially lifesaving intervention where it was needed most—in the field.

Throughout more than three decades as a Paramedic, Andre has dedicated himself to providing emergency care when patients are at their most vulnerable. His work demonstrates the value of experience, clinical readiness, and advances in prehospital medicine that allow EMS professionals to bring increasingly sophisticated care directly to the patient.

AMR is proud to recognize Paramedic Andre Pinkston as a Star of Life for his commitment to exceptional patient care and his role in delivering lifesaving whole-blood therapy through AMR DeKalb County’s HART Program.

Connie Porter is a Paramedic with AMR in Lihue, Hawaii, whose dedication to caring for others extends from emergency response into injury prevention and community advocacy throughout Kauai.

Connie demonstrated her clinical commitment when she responded in less than five minutes to a patient who had suffered a traumatic injury. Her quick action and attentive care helped ensure the patient received the critically needed treatment at the receiving facility. The patient ultimately recovered and was able to return home.

For Connie, however, caring for her community does not end when an ambulance call is complete. She also serves as Kauai’s injury-prevention specialist, working to help prevent emergencies before they occur. As a certified car-seat technician, Connie helps promote the safety of children and families across the island.

Her commitment to service extends to some of Kauai’s most vulnerable residents. Connie is a tireless advocate for the island’s elderly and homeless populations, demonstrating the same compassion in her community work that she brings to patients in the field.

Whether responding quickly to a traumatic emergency, helping families protect their children, or advocating for people who may otherwise struggle to have their needs recognized, Connie approaches service with compassion and commitment. Her work reflects an understanding that EMS professionals can make a difference not only during emergencies, but also through prevention, education, and advocacy.

AMR is proud to recognize Paramedic Connie Porter as a Star of Life for her dedication to patient care, injury prevention, and the well-being of the Kauai community.

Mark Rock is a Paramedic with AMR in Moorpark, California, whose 30 years in emergency medical services have been distinguished by clinical service, education, mentorship, and contributions to the advancement of patient care.

Drawing on decades of field experience, Mark developed a modernized patient assessment framework designed to strengthen the way EMS professionals approach patient evaluation. His work gained recognition beyond his own organization and community, earning publication in the Journal of Emergency Medical Services (JEMS) and subsequent attention in European EMS journals.

Mark’s work ultimately reached an international audience when he presented the framework at the European EMS Conference in Glasgow. Its influence also came full circle at home, where the local EMS agency adopted the framework as part of Ventura County’s Universal Patient Care Guidelines.

The progression from an idea developed by a working Paramedic to a published, internationally presented, and locally adopted clinical framework reflects Mark’s commitment to improving EMS practice. His contribution has helped influence the protocols that guide patient assessment, extending his impact well beyond the patients he personally treats.

Even after three decades in the field, Mark remains an active educator and mentor. By sharing his experience and encouraging the professional development of other EMS clinicians, he continues to strengthen the profession and help prepare providers to deliver thoughtful, systematic patient care.

Mark’s career demonstrates how one EMS professional can influence patient care both at the bedside and throughout a larger system. Through clinical practice, education, mentorship, and innovation, his contributions have helped shape how providers assess and care for patients. AMR is proud to recognize Paramedic Mark Rock as a Star of Life.

Emily Smayra is a Paramedic Supervisor with AMR in Stockton, California, whose courage, leadership, and unwavering commitment to her patients are evident in the most challenging circumstances.

Emily demonstrated these qualities while responding to a large-scale shooting that impacted multiple people. During this tragic incident, she served as the lead responding Paramedic and Medical Group Supervisor, assuming a critical leadership role amid an exceptionally demanding emergency.

Faced with a complex and rapidly evolving situation, Emily provided clear command and a steady presence while remaining focused on the patients and responders who depended on her leadership. Her ability to bring stability to a worst-case scenario exemplified the composure and professionalism required of EMS leaders during large-scale emergencies.

Emily brings that same courage and commitment to the difficult calls she routinely encounters. Whether providing direct patient care or leading others through a critical incident, she approaches her responsibilities with dedication, sound leadership, and an unwavering commitment to service.

Her actions during the shooting reflect the qualities she demonstrates throughout her career: bravery in the face of extraordinary circumstances, clear and confident leadership, and steadfast dedication to those in need. AMR is proud to recognize Paramedic Supervisor Emily Smayra as a Star of Life.

Forrest Tracey is an EMT with AMR in Pecos, New Mexico, whose leadership, resourcefulness, and determination were demonstrated during a challenging wilderness rescue far from accessible roads.

When a patient needed emergency care in difficult terrain, Forrest used GPS coordinates to navigate the ambulance toward the patient’s location. Washed-out roads made vehicle access increasingly difficult, forcing Forrest to leave the ambulance behind and continue on foot across rugged terrain to reach the patient.

Once on scene, Forrest joined the rescue team in securing the patient in a rescue basket. The team then faced the difficult task of carrying the patient along a narrow, muddy trail to reach the waiting ambulance. Despite the challenging conditions and significant barriers to evacuation, Forrest remained focused on working with his fellow responders to safely move the patient from the remote location.

After reaching the ambulance, the patient was transported to the hospital for further care. Forrest’s navigation skills, teamwork, persistence, and willingness to adapt as conditions changed were instrumental in overcoming the obstacles between the patient and needed medical care.

The rescue exemplifies an essential quality of emergency medical services: finding a way to reach people in need, even when the path to them is anything but straightforward. Forrest’s actions demonstrated the resourcefulness and commitment required to serve patients in remote and challenging environments.

AMR is proud to recognize EMT Forrest Tracey as a Star of Life for his leadership, teamwork, and dedication to ensuring that a patient in need could be reached, rescued, and transported to definitive care.

Terry Gray is being applauded for his extraordinary quick thinking and heroic actions during a freeway emergency.

While responding to a serious accident involving a pedestrian on a busy highway, Terry immediately assessed the severity of the scene and notified authorities. In the midst of this critical moment, he spotted another vehicle rapidly approaching. Without hesitation, he sprang into action—shielding others from danger and physically pushing a pedestrian out of harm’s way.

The oncoming vehicle collided with the AMR Supervisor unit, narrowly missing Terry. His swift, selfless response not only protected those around him but also likely saved multiple lives, including his own.

American Medical Response is proud to recognize Emergency Medical Technician and Crew Chief Terry Gray as a Star of Life!

It’s every new parent’s worst nightmare: your newborn suddenly stops breathing and you are powerless to help. Last fall, that terrifying moment became reality for one mother—but in the midst of panic and fear, Dylan Graves became a beacon of hope.

Dylan is being honored for his heroic actions in saving the life of a 12-day-old infant who had stopped breathing. With calm precision and unwavering focus, he worked alongside his partner and local firefighters to resuscitate the baby, stabilize the situation, and ensure the child was safely transported to the hospital.

Thanks to their swift and coordinated response, the infant made a full recovery and was soon discharged home. To the grateful mother, Dylan isn’t just a first responder—he is a lifesaver. She continues to share her gratitude, praising Dylan and the entire crew who answered her desperate call for help. Their courage and compassion transformed a moment of unimaginable fear into one of miraculous relief.

American Medical Response is proud to recognize Lead Paramedic and Field Training Officer Dylan Graves as a Star of Life!