Kenny Glimme is being commended for his quick instincts and lifesaving actions that saved the life of a toddler. While at his base during routine aircraft maintenance, Kenny heard screams coming from a nearby field. Compelled to act, he climbed a fence and discovered a mother clutching her lifeless child, who had fallen into a pond.

Without hesitation, Kenny immediately began rescue breathing and CPR while waiting for first responders to arrive. He coordinated care with the arriving EMS team, requested the closest air ambulance, and helped direct resuscitation efforts on the way to the airport. Once the helicopter crew prepared for flight, Kenny assisted the nurse to ensure the toddler received critical care every step of the way.

The child was stabilized and flown to a pediatric center, where they recovered and returned home five weeks later. Thanks to Kenny’s swift response, clinical expertise, and calm leadership under pressure, a young life was saved.

REACH Air Medical Services is proud to recognize Flight Paramedic Kenny Glimme as a Star of Life!

Jimi Estrada-Velazquez is being praised for his swift action and lifesaving intervention that saved the life of a toddler who nearly drowned.

Last summer, Jimi and his partner responded to a frantic 9-1-1 call from parents who had found their child face down in a swimming pool. Within two minutes of dispatch, Jimi arrived on scene and brought calm, expertise, and urgency to a chaotic situation. Working alongside his partner and law enforcement officers, he immediately began rescue breathing, delivering lifesaving oxygen to the child.

Thanks to seamless coordination with fellow first responders, the child was stabilized and quickly loaded into the ambulance. Firefighters joined en route, and together the team defied the odds—reviving the young patient and ensuring a safe arrival at the hospital.

Because of Jimi’s rapid response and unwavering focus, the toddler made a full recovery. His actions reflect his personal commitment to teamwork, training, and courage under pressure—qualities that define the very best of the EMS profession.

American Medical Response is proud to recognize Paramedic Jimi Estrada-Velazquez as a Star of Life!

LeAnn Riley is being honored for 35 years of unwavering dedication to problem-solving and her gift for empathetic, strategic communication in the face of crisis. As a calm and steady voice on the other end of 911 calls, she has guided countless individuals—many too frightened to speak clearly—through emergencies with precision, compassion, and care.

Her remarkable ability to ask the right questions and quickly assess the appropriate level of response is not a skill acquired overnight. It reflects decades of experience, professional mastery, and a deep understanding of the emergency medical services industry.

To her colleagues and supervisors, LeAnn is the very definition of an unsung hero. Her exceptional skill, accuracy, and commitment make her an indispensable part of her agency’s success and a trusted lifeline for her community.

American Medical Response is proud to recognize LeAnn Riley as a Star of Life!

Fear doesn’t stop Dustin Wilson—it fuels his resolve. On one extraordinary call, Dustin responded to an emergency involving an unresponsive individual found hanging from a bridge, entangled in a rope. The patient appeared to have been attempting to rappel down to recover belongings that had fallen into the water below.

With no fire personnel or rescue equipment yet on scene, Dustin took charge. Secured only by his partner and local officers, he climbed over the guardrail to reach the patient. His decisive actions allowed the team to pull the individual back to safety, where CPR was initiated. Thanks to Dustin’s leadership and quick response, the patient regained a pulse before being transported for further care.

Dustin’s courage under pressure and unwavering commitment to saving lives embody the very best of EMS.

American Medical Response is proud to recognize Dustin Wilson as a Star of Life!

Brannen Zilka is being honored for his quick actions that saved the life of a spectator at a local sporting event—all while off duty. Last fall, while attending a football game with his family, Brannen saw a person collapse in sudden cardiac arrest. Without hesitation, he immediately began CPR and quickly retrieved an AED to deliver a lifesaving shock. Thanks to his rapid response and clinical expertise, the patient survived and was able to leave the hospital with no disabilities.

In addition to his frontline skill, Brannen is admired by his colleagues for his servant-leadership and commitment to his team. He dedicates personal time to serve with the Special Operations Unit, contributes to the System Status Committee, and teaches American Heart Association courses. He is also a trusted mentor in new hire academies, helping to prepare the next generation of EMS professionals.

Brannen’s service extends far beyond his daily duties. Over the years, he has deployed many times, not only as a crew member but also as an Ambulance Strike Team leader, stepping forward whenever his community or state calls.

American Medical Response is proud to recognize Brannen Zilka as a Star of Life!

On June 24, 2024, while off duty, Falck Alameda County Paramedic Jeremy Jaime performed a heroic rescue that saved the life of seven-year-old Bastian “Bazzy” Michel. Jeremy came upon a devastating accident where Bazzy had been struck by a large truck and was found unconscious.

Drawing on his professional training, Jeremy immediately initiated CPR alongside a nearby witness. After approximately two minutes of focused effort, they successfully revived Bazzy. Jeremy quickly identified the boy’s critical injuries—including a broken arm, head trauma, and internal damage—and remained at his side until additional responders arrived. He not only assisted EMS crews in stabilizing the patient but also provided calm reassurance and support to Bazzy’s family during the crisis.

Thanks to Jeremy’s swift actions, Bazzy survived and went on to make an incredible recovery. The families have remained close, with Bazzy affectionately calling Jeremy his “guardian angel” and “Maui,” a nod to his larger-than-life presence and heroic role that day.

Falck Alameda County is proud to honor Jeremy Jaime as a Star of Life!

Falck San Diego is proud to recognize Paramedic Gerardo Ramirez as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life. Gerardo is known for his dedication, compassion, and professionalism, treating every patient with empathy and skill whether facing routine discomfort or life-threatening emergencies. Always willing to step in, Gerardo supports fellow crews, ensures scene safety, and provides calm reassurance in difficult situations.

Beyond the field, he serves as a Paramedic and EMT trainer for Falck and a preceptor for Paramedic interns, guiding the next generation with both technical knowledge and compassion. He also teaches at Southwestern College, where his thoughtful approach continues to shape future EMS professionals. Gerardo’s reputation for integrity and leadership has earned him respect from colleagues, partner agencies, and fire crews alike. He has repeatedly stepped up to help cover shifts in times of need, demonstrating his commitment to his community and his team. Balancing professional excellence with devotion to his family, Gerardo embodies the very best of Falck San Diego and we are honored to recognize him 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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

Hall Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Emergency Medical Technician Robert Brengartner as a Star of Life. Brengartner began his EMS career with Hall Ambulance in December 2009 and has served the community of Rosamond, California, for more than 15 years. He is stationed at the Hall Ambulance Rosamond substation, which is staffed with two Advanced Life Support ambulances, where he is known for his dedication, teamwork, and steady professionalism.

On July 16, EMT Brengartner responded to a call that demonstrated his commitment not only to his patients but also to his fellow EMS providers. He was dispatched as the second unit to the scene of a cardiac arrest where crews were already engaged in lifesaving efforts. Upon arrival, he found the Kern County Fire Department and his colleagues from the first responding ambulance working to save two patients—one of them being the Paramedic from his own station. Without hesitation, Brengartner joined the team, assisting in resuscitation efforts and supporting the scene until a third ambulance arrived. He then helped load his injured partner and safely transported him to the emergency department, ensuring his coworker received the urgent care he needed.

This incident exemplifies the selflessness, skill, and professionalism EMT Brengartner brings to his work every day. Whether caring for the residents of Rosamond or standing by his teammates in their moments of greatest need, he embodies the values of service, compassion, and community.

Hall Ambulance Service is proud to honor EMT Robert Brengartner as a Star of Life.

Joe Sisneros found his calling in service early, beginning as a volunteer firefighter in Alaska. When he saw ambulance calls going unanswered, he stepped up without hesitation. He earned his EMT certification and ensured his neighbors had someone they could rely on in their moments of need.

That spirit of care and commitment followed him to Crescent City, California, where he joined Del Norte Ambulance and pursued his Paramedic training. For Joe, emergency medicine became more than a job—it became a passion.

Today, Joe leads Del Norte Ambulance’s Explorer Post 911, mentoring the next generation of responders. Under his guidance, the program has become a launchpad for future EMS professionals. Explorers learn CPR, basic first aid, and the fundamentals of EMS operations, ride along with professionals, and gain firsthand insight into what it means to serve. Beyond technical skills, Joe instills responsibility, compassion, and pride in community service. Many of his Explorers have gone on to become EMTs and Paramedics, carrying forward the values they learned under his mentorship.

Joe is also committed to education and clinical excellence. He provides continuing education courses for his team and other responders, ensuring that professionals remain current, sharp, and ready to deliver the highest standard of care. He contributes to the Del Norte Ambulance CQI committee, helping elevate standards, foster accountability, and build a culture where learning never stops.

For Joe, saving lives begins in the community. He teaches CPR to neighbors, students, and local organizations, empowering everyday people to act confidently in a crisis. His classes not only build lifesaving skills but also create a stronger, safer community. His love for teaching extends to local schools, where he collaborates with science clubs to give students hands-on experience in emergency care.

Joe Sisneros does not simply serve his community—he lifts it up. Del Norte Ambulance is proud to honor him as a Star of Life, recognizing his compassion, dedication to education, and lasting impact as both a caregiver and a leader.

Andrew Natoli has built a distinguished career as a Paramedic Field Training Officer in Sonoma County, where his leadership and skill have had a direct and lasting impact on both patients and colleagues. He has been at the center of numerous lifesaving calls, including several cardiac arrest cases in which patients not only survived but were able to return home to their families with full neurological recovery. These outcomes reflect his clinical precision, ability to remain calm in the most high-stakes situations, and unwavering commitment to excellence in prehospital emergency care.

Beyond his exceptional patient care, Andrew is deeply respected for his role as a mentor and educator. As a Field Training Officer, he guides new Paramedics and EMTs, instilling in them the same high standards of professionalism, compassion, and technical expertise that have defined his career. His clear communication, steady leadership, and collaborative approach have earned him the trust of patients, peers, and partner agencies alike. By helping to develop the next generation of EMS providers, Andrew ensures that his influence extends far beyond any single call, strengthening the entire system of care in Sonoma County.

Andrew exemplifies the values of courage, compassion, and clinical excellence that define the EMS profession. Sonoma County is proud to recognize Paramedic Field Training Officer Andrew Natoli as a Star of Life for his remarkable contributions to patient care, mentorship, and community service.

Paramedic and Field Training Officer Jess Robins is being honored as a Star of Life for her unwavering dedication, compassion, and consistent excellence in prehospital care. Unlike a single dramatic event, Jess’s impact is measured by her daily commitment to every patient and colleague she encounters. She demonstrates the highest standards of professionalism and empathy, earning the trust of patients, peers, and partner agencies alike.

As a Field Training Officer, Jess plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of EMS professionals. She not only teaches clinical skills and protocols but also models the qualities that define an exceptional Paramedic—patience, compassion, and integrity. Her leadership empowers new providers to grow in both confidence and competence, extending her influence far beyond her own calls and into the broader EMS system.

Jess embodies the spirit of service at the heart of emergency medical services. Her recognition as a Star of Life reflects her remarkable contributions to patient care, her colleagues, and the community she proudly serves. Her example is a reminder that true excellence in EMS is not only found in extraordinary moments, but also in the consistent, compassionate care delivered every single day.

Originally from Australia, Paramedic Tristan Tomlins came to the United States on a work visa to continue his career in emergency medical services, bringing with him a strong international background in prehospital care. Since joining the Solano County team, Tristan has quickly established himself as an outstanding clinician and a trusted partner in the field.

Tristan’s skill and leadership were powerfully demonstrated during a dramatic cardiac arrest case in which his actions directly contributed to the patient’s survival and full neurological recovery. Recognizing the urgency of the moment, he rapidly assessed the scene, coordinated efforts with bystanders, and took command of resuscitation efforts. Under his direction, high-quality CPR was maintained, six defibrillation shocks were delivered, and life-saving medications were administered. His calm presence and decisive leadership in this high-pressure situation exemplify the very best of EMS practice.

Beyond his clinical expertise, Tristan embodies the global spirit of emergency medicine, bringing knowledge and experience from abroad to strengthen patient care here at home. His dedication, adaptability, and professionalism have made him an invaluable member of the Solano County EMS system.

Solano County is proud to recognize Paramedic Tristan Tomlins as a Star of Life for his excellence in patient care, leadership, and commitment to the community.

Andrew Varela is being honored as a Star of Life for his exceptional dedication to the EMS industry and his exemplary performance in two critical emergency responses in 2023. In one instance, Andrew responded to a young boy who suffered a sudden cardiac arrest while riding his scooter. Andrew and his partner took over CPR, administered advanced life support, including defibrillation, and helped restore the boy’s pulse before his full recovery and discharge from the hospital. In another incident, Andrew and his trainee successfully revived a female patient in cardiac arrest at an urgent care clinic by performing CPR and using an EKG monitor to restore her pulse.

As a respected Field Training Officer, Andrew not only demonstrates clinical excellence but also leads and mentors new EMTs and paramedics, making him a well-deserving recipient of the 2024 Star of Life award.