Charlie Reynolds is a Paramedic and Safety Officer with Metro West Ambulance whose career is defined by mentorship, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the safety of his patients and colleagues.

Before joining Metro West, Charlie built a strong foundation through healthcare experience and volunteer service as a firefighter in a rural Washington County, Oregon, community. Those early experiences in public service helped shape the commitment to teamwork, preparedness, and patient care that he brings to EMS today.

Charlie joined Metro West Ambulance in 2018 as a Paramedic and preceptor. In that role, he invested in developing new Paramedics, helping them build the clinical skills, confidence, and judgment needed to succeed in the field. His mentorship has left a lasting impact on the providers he has helped prepare for their careers.

Charlie’s leadership eventually extended beyond direct patient care. After advancing to Supervisor, he took on the broader responsibility of Safety Officer, leading Metro West’s company-wide safety collective. In this role, Charlie has helped make safety a shared organizational priority, influencing practices throughout the company, from field operations to the communications center.

Through his work as a clinician, mentor, Supervisor, and Safety Officer, Charlie has demonstrated that protecting patients and EMS professionals requires more than policies and procedures—it requires a culture in which safety is practiced every day. His leadership has helped strengthen that culture throughout Metro West Ambulance.

Metro West Ambulance is proud to recognize Paramedic and Safety Officer Charlie Reynolds as a Star of Life.

Holden Sylvan began his emergency medical services career with Olympic Ambulance in 2022 and has quickly distinguished himself through leadership, mentorship, and a strong commitment to serving others.

Holden began as a dispatcher, gaining a valuable foundation in emergency communications and an understanding of the coordination required to support patients and field crews. He later transitioned to the field as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), where his operational skills and steady demeanor quickly earned the trust of his colleagues. His dedication to public safety also extends beyond Olympic Ambulance through his service as a volunteer firefighter with Hoodsport Fire.

As Holden continued to grow professionally, he served for a year as a Shift Officer/Supervisor, helping guide crew operations and support his colleagues on the front lines. He has also made a significant contribution as a Field Training Officer, mentoring and training numerous dispatchers and field personnel. Through this work, Holden has helped prepare the next generation of responders while reinforcing the standards of professionalism and patient care that define Olympic Ambulance.

Never content to stop learning, Holden is continuing to advance his clinical knowledge and is currently completing Paramedic training through the National Medical Education & Training Center. His progression from dispatcher to EMT, operational leader, trainer, and Paramedic student reflects both his ambition and his commitment to becoming an increasingly capable resource for his patients, colleagues, and community.

In just a few years, Holden has demonstrated an impressive capacity to learn, lead, and help others succeed. Olympic Ambulance is proud to recognize EMT and Field Training Officer Holden Sylvan as a Star of Life.

Jeff Traviss is a Paramedic with Umpqua Valley Ambulance who has dedicated 22 years to providing exceptional patient care while helping develop the EMS professionals who serve alongside him.

Throughout his career, Jeff has taken on numerous leadership and educational responsibilities, serving as a Field Training Officer, Supervisor, Clinical Preceptor, and Instructor. In each role, he has demonstrated a commitment to professionalism, mentorship, and the continued growth of those entering and advancing within the EMS profession.

Jeff’s willingness to share the knowledge and experience gained over more than two decades has made him a valued resource and trusted mentor. Whether responding to an emergency, teaching a class, guiding a developing provider, or helping ensure his organization has the resources it needs, Jeff consistently steps forward when he is needed. His influence extends beyond the patients he personally treats to the many EMS professionals who have benefited from his instruction, encouragement, and example.

That same commitment is evident in Jeff’s life outside EMS. He and his wife, Chancey, have been married for 20 years and are the proud parents of their 17-year-old daughter, Raeleigh, who is the apple of her father’s eye. Jeff enjoys coaching soccer and traveling to support Raeleigh at her sporting events, making family an important priority alongside his EMS career.

Through 22 years of patient care, leadership, education, and mentorship, Jeff has demonstrated a lasting commitment to both his community and the EMS profession. Umpqua Valley Ambulance is proud to recognize Paramedic Jeff Traviss as a Star of Life.

Eli Velasco came to Del Norte Ambulance eager to explore the world of EMS. Before long, his curiosity developed into a passion for the profession. He began asking thoughtful questions about Advanced Life Support and seeking every opportunity to learn, laying the foundation for his continued growth as a Paramedic.

Eli’s path through Paramedic school was not without challenges. When he encountered setbacks, he responded with determination rather than discouragement. He remained focused, put in the necessary work, and ultimately excelled. That same perseverance continues to define his approach to EMS. Eli consistently arrives early, gives his best on every shift, and looks for opportunities to support the people around him.

His clinical development has been equally impressive. Del Norte Ambulance’s Clinical Supervisor describes Eli’s growth as the greatest she has seen among the organization’s providers this year. His documentation is excellent, and he actively welcomes constructive feedback. Rather than simply acknowledging guidance, Eli takes the time to ensure he understands it and then applies what he has learned to future patient encounters.

Beyond his professional development, Eli continues working toward a better future for himself while remaining present for his family through personal challenges. His ability to balance those responsibilities while continuing to grow as an EMS professional speaks to his resilience and character.

Eli’s curiosity, perseverance, work ethic, and commitment to continuous improvement demonstrate the qualities Del Norte Ambulance values in its providers. His dedication to becoming a stronger clinician ultimately serves the people who matter most—his patients and community. Del Norte Ambulance is proud to recognize Paramedic Eli Velasco as a Star of Life.

Allison “Allie” Reed is a Paramedic and Quality Assurance/Quality Improvement Officer with Bay Cities Ambulance. Although she has been a Paramedic since 2023, Allie has already made a meaningful impact on her organization, her colleagues, and the patients she serves.

Allie brings genuine compassion and dedication to every aspect of her work. She takes pride in doing things the right way—not simply because it is expected, but because she cares deeply about the people who depend on her. That commitment is evident both in the care she provides in the field and in the support she offers her fellow EMS professionals.

As Bay Cities Ambulance’s Quality Assurance/Quality Improvement Officer, Allie has embraced the responsibility of helping the organization continually learn and improve. She approaches QA/QI not simply as a process for identifying mistakes, but as an opportunity for education, professional development, and stronger patient care. Her supportive approach encourages coworkers to learn from each experience while strengthening the organization as a whole.

Allie is also someone her colleagues know they can rely on. Whether providing clinical support, offering a second perspective, or simply stepping in when help is needed, she consistently demonstrates that EMS is about more than responding to calls. It is about serving people with compassion during some of the most difficult moments of their lives and supporting the professionals who provide that care.

Through her professionalism, compassion, and commitment to continuous improvement, Allie demonstrates that leadership in EMS is measured not only in years of service, but also in the positive influence a provider has on patients and colleagues. Bay Cities Ambulance is proud to recognize Paramedic Allie Reed as a Star of Life.

Danyel Hornaday is a Senior Paramedic and Field Training Officer with Pioneer Ambulance who has devoted more than 25 years to emergency medical services. Throughout her career, she has distinguished herself not only through exceptional patient care, but also through her leadership and commitment to strengthening rural EMS systems in Oregon.

Danyel has played an important role in bringing high-quality clinical protocols and organized Field Training Officer programs to rural EMS. Her efforts have helped provide structure, consistency, and strong clinical standards for providers serving communities where resources can be limited and EMS professionals must be prepared to meet a wide range of challenges.

Recognizing that excellent emergency care depends on strong partnerships, Danyel has also built lasting relationships with law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and hospitals. These connections have helped strengthen collaboration among the professionals and organizations responsible for caring for patients throughout the communities she serves.

Perhaps Danyel’s greatest legacy can be found in the EMS professionals she has mentored. Over the years, she has guided and encouraged countless trainees, sharing her knowledge, experience, and expectations for high-quality patient care. Many of those providers have gone on to assume leadership positions themselves, extending Danyel’s influence to another generation of EMS professionals.

After more than 25 years in EMS, Danyel remains steadfast in her commitment to patients, colleagues, and the profession. Her influence can be seen in the systems she has helped strengthen, the partnerships she has built, and the providers she has prepared to serve and lead.

Pioneer Ambulance is proud to recognize Senior Paramedic and Field Training Officer Danyel Hornaday as a Star of Life for her leadership, mentorship, and enduring commitment to advancing high-quality emergency medical care in rural Oregon.

Jason Hawkins is an EMT-Intermediate with Medix Ambulance Service whose dedication to professional growth, patient advocacy, and compassionate care has made him a valued member of the Medix family since 2017.

Jason began his career with Medix as an EMT and has continually worked to expand his education and abilities as an EMS professional. He advanced to Advanced EMT and today serves as an EMT-Intermediate, taking on greater clinical responsibility while continuing to seek opportunities to improve the care he provides.

Colleagues know Jason for his unique and sometimes quirky personality, which brings character to the workplace. Beneath that individuality is an extraordinarily loyal EMS professional who genuinely cares about his patients, coworkers, and organization. Nearly a decade after joining Medix, that commitment remains a defining part of who he is.

Jason is never content to provide care simply because “that is how it has always been done.” He continually asks how he can become a better clinician, improve the patient experience, and deliver the highest level of care possible within his scope of practice. That desire to learn and improve has accompanied every step of his professional progression.

Above all, Jason is an exceptional patient advocate. He understands that EMS professionals often meet people when they are frightened, vulnerable, confused, or unable to effectively advocate for themselves. Jason takes the time to listen, understand his patients’ concerns, and speak up for what he believes is in their best interest. For him, patient care is about more than treating an illness or injury; it is about caring for the person experiencing it.

Jason demonstrates that technical knowledge and clinical skills are only part of what makes an outstanding EMS professional. Compassion, integrity, advocacy, loyalty, and a genuine desire to continually improve are equally important. Through his continued professional development and steadfast commitment to those he serves, Jason embodies each of these qualities.

Medix Ambulance Service is proud to recognize EMT-Intermediate Jason Hawkins as a Star of Life for his dedication to patient advocacy, continued professional growth, and loyal service to his patients, colleagues, organization, and community.

Daniel Estey is a Paramedic with Medix Ambulance whose remarkable career has made him a steadfast presence in the Longview community and a trusted mentor to generations of EMS professionals.

Daniel began his EMS career with Medix Ambulance in the late 1980s, quickly earning a reputation for clinical excellence, calm leadership, and unwavering compassion. When another ambulance company acquired Medix Ambulance’s Longview operation in 1994, Daniel remained committed to the community, continuing to serve Longview for the next 30 years.

In 2024, when Medix Ambulance was awarded the City of Longview’s EMS contract, Daniel returned to the organization where his career began. His homecoming reflected not only his connection to Medix Ambulance, but also his enduring commitment to the patients, families, colleagues, and fellow responders of Longview.

Throughout his career, Daniel has served through some of the most challenging periods in Longview’s emergency response history, including major industrial incidents and the evolution of the community’s modern, coordinated EMS system. His clinical expertise and steady leadership have contributed to the strength and reliability of emergency medical services in Longview while helping foster strong partnerships with local fire agencies.

Daniel’s influence is also evident in the EMS professionals who have worked alongside him. Colleagues describe him as steady, humble, and exceptionally capable—an anchor during critical incidents and a mentor to generations of EMTs and Paramedics. His willingness to share his experience has helped strengthen the providers who will carry Longview EMS into the future.

Few careers demonstrate a more enduring commitment to one community. Through decades of patient care, mentorship, leadership, and service, Daniel has positively influenced countless lives and helped shape the EMS system he continues to serve. Medix Ambulance is proud to recognize Paramedic Daniel Estey as a Star of Life.

Hadley Eager is an EMT with Cascade Ambulance whose professionalism, work ethic, and commitment to patient care have distinguished her early in what promises to be a meaningful career in emergency services.

Hadley became an EMT in 2023, when she was just 18 years old. Her interest in emergency medical services was inspired by a childhood neighbor who served as a fire lieutenant. Through that influence, Hadley became drawn to the opportunity EMS professionals have to make a direct difference during some of the most critical moments in a person’s life.

Originally from Washington State, Hadley joined the Cascade Ambulance team in 2026. From the beginning, her Field Training Officers were impressed by her work ethic and the level of professionalism she demonstrated in the field. Despite being relatively early in her EMS career, Hadley approaches her responsibilities with dedication and a clear sense of purpose.

One of Hadley’s most meaningful experiences came when she had the opportunity to meet a former patient who had achieved return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) following an emergency response. The patient personally thanked Hadley and her crew for the efforts that helped save their life. For Hadley, meeting someone whose life had been directly affected by her crew’s care provided a powerful reminder of the purpose behind every EMS response.

That experience continues to reinforce Hadley’s dedication to her patients and her desire to build a career serving her community. She plans to continue her path in emergency services with the goal of becoming a career Firefighter/EMT.

Hadley’s early career demonstrates that meaningful contributions to EMS are not measured solely by years of service. Through professionalism, compassion, hard work, and a genuine desire to make a difference, she has already begun building a strong foundation for a lifetime of service. Cascade Ambulance is proud to recognize EMT Hadley Eager as a Star of Life.

Kate Crain has dedicated 23 years to Woodburn Ambulance as a Paramedic and Shift Officer, building a career defined not only by excellent patient care, but also by an extraordinary commitment to her coworkers, her organization, and the EMS profession.

Throughout her career, Kate has worn many hats, always with the goal of making Woodburn Ambulance a better place to work and ensuring crews have the resources and support they need to serve their communities. She has become a trusted resource for employees at all hours, routinely making herself available to resolve fleet and equipment issues, address unexpected scheduling challenges, and find solutions that keep ambulances staffed and operational.

Kate’s willingness to step in whenever a problem arises has made her an invaluable source of support for field crews and organizational leadership alike. Just as importantly, she is a constant advocate and cheerleader for her coworkers. Kate makes a point of recognizing their accomplishments and helping create a workplace culture in which employees feel valued, appreciated, and supported.

Her contributions also extend into the community. Kate has revitalized Woodburn Ambulance’s social media presence, using it to showcase the people behind the organization, highlight the important work being performed throughout the communities it serves, and promote a positive image of EMS. Through these efforts, she has helped the public see not only the professionalism of EMS providers, but also their dedication and humanity.

Kate’s commitment to Woodburn Ambulance extends far beyond any single job description. Whether solving a fleet problem, helping cover a difficult shift, supporting a coworker, celebrating the achievements of her colleagues, or sharing the story of EMS with the community, she consistently puts others and the success of the organization first.

After 23 years of service, Kate continues to demonstrate the leadership, dependability, and generosity that have made her such an important part of Woodburn Ambulance. Woodburn Ambulance is proud to recognize Paramedic Kate Crain as a Star of Life.

Rhiannon Chuck is a Paramedic with Pacific West Ambulance whose clinical skill, compassion, and infectious positivity have distinguished her since joining the organization in the spring of 2022.

Known for her upbeat attitude and sense of humor, Rhiannon brings energy and encouragement to those around her, helping brighten even the most difficult days. Although relatively new to her role as a Paramedic, she has quickly earned the confidence of her colleagues through outstanding patient care, strong critical-thinking skills, and a bedside manner that reflects both compassion and maturity.

Rhiannon has already faced some of the most challenging calls encountered in the 911 system. One response in particular demonstrated her ability to remain composed and provide critical care under exceptionally difficult circumstances.

Rhiannon responded to a patient experiencing severe anaphylaxis in a remote wooded area, where resources were limited and she was the only Paramedic on scene. Faced with a life-threatening emergency in an environment where additional support and equipment were not readily available, Rhiannon relied on her clinical knowledge and critical-thinking skills to care for the patient. Her performance under pressure exemplified the resourcefulness and confidence required of EMS professionals working in challenging conditions.

For Rhiannon, however, excellent patient care is about more than clinical interventions. Her compassion and bedside manner help patients feel cared for during frightening and uncertain moments, while her humor and positive outlook make her a valued presence among her colleagues.

Rhiannon has set a high standard early in her career as a Paramedic, demonstrating that experience is measured not only in years, but also in how a provider responds when patients need them most. Pacific West Ambulance is proud to recognize Paramedic Rhiannon Chuck as a Star of Life for the skill, compassion, critical thinking, and positivity she brings to her patients and her EMS team.

Christopher Spilde excels at providing excellent and compassionate care to patients in his community and is equally committed to fostering this same standard of care among his peers.

With approximately 28 years of service in Emergency Medical Services, nearly half of them within the Metro West family of companies, Christopher has become a trusted leader and mentor. At Woodburn Ambulance, he consistently demonstrated his commitment to EMS by mentoring others, even before holding formal leadership roles. Colleagues frequently sought his guidance to improve their performance and deepen their operational understanding.

Because of his dedication to supporting others, Christopher quickly advanced through the ranks at Woodburn Ambulance. He has served as a Field Training Officer and Shift Officer, and today he holds the role of Clinical Manager while also leading the company’s Quality Assurance Program. In addition, Christopher regularly contributes as an instructor, teaching classes for local first responders.

His unwavering dedication, wealth of experience, and commitment to excellence embody the very spirit of the Stars of Life award. Christopher’s impact on Woodburn Ambulance and the citizens it serves is both deep and lasting. Woodburn Ambulance is proud to recognize him 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.

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.

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.

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!

Joe Scott has been a dedicated member of Medix Ambulance in Warrenton, OR since 2016. He began his EMS career in a wheelchair van, quickly obtaining his EMT license within a few months. Joe has since worked full-time on the ambulance, consistently striving to advance his career and enhance the level of care he provides.

In 2022, Joe earned his Paramedic certification from the National Medical Education & Training Center in West Bridgewater, MA, as part of Medix’s tuition assistance program. Since obtaining his Paramedic credentials, Joe has swiftly climbed the ranks, becoming a Field Training Officer and Shift Lead. He also served on the company’s safety committee, holding the roles of Safety Officer and Chairperson. In addition, Joe taught the Advanced EMT course at a local community college in 2022, further demonstrating his commitment to education and mentorship.

Before his EMS career, Joe studied music with a focus on percussion and worked as an arranger and instructor for high school marching bands and percussion ensembles. He is currently pursuing his CCP-C certification to expand his knowledge and provide exceptional care to his patients.

Medix Ambulance Service is proud to nominate Joe Scott as a 2024 Star of Life for his dedication, leadership, and commitment to the EMS profession.

Don Marr has served his community through EMS and EMS education for more than 40 years. During that time, he has held the positions of EMS Program Coordinator and Lead Instructor at Southwestern Oregon Community College, Training Officer for Bay Cities Ambulance, Education Specialist at Bay Area Hospital, Senior NCO for the Oregon Army National Guard Medical Training Team, and Emergency Medical Response Coordinator for the US Navy in the Emergency Management Office at Naval Support Activity Bahrain, home of the 5th Fleet.

Don has been a guest instructor in the two medical schools in Lithuania as a team member providing the first ACLS training in Lithuania, and at the medical school in Bahrain mentoring the instructors setting up and providing the first Pediatric Advanced Life Support training and certification in Bahrain. While in Bahrain Don taught the “Medical Response to Weapons of Mass Destruction Course” to US Navy medical personnel and doctors, nurses, and Paramedics from Salmaniya Medical Center, Bahrain. Don is currently a Paramedic and Paramedic Preceptor at Bay Cities Ambulance.

Don enjoys going on long-distance motorcycle ride as well as helping his wife of 43 years with her collection of chickens, ducks, and geese.

Thank you, Don Marr, for all that you do to support Bay Cities Ambulance and the communities we serve.

Jorge Garcia, an Emergency Medical Technician at Umpqua Valley Ambulance, joined the EMS profession in 2019. He is currently completing Paramedic School, furthering his passion for caring for his community—a passion he has nurtured from a young age. Initially finding his calling as a Pastor in his church, Jorge later expanded his service to the medical field, where he continues to make a significant impact.

In addition to his EMT career and paramedic studies, Jorge remains active in his church, volunteers with his local Fire Department, and enjoys experimenting with cooking. He’s particularly famous among friends and colleagues for his habanero chicken mac and cheese.

Jorge is recognized by his supervisor and peers as a spirited, intellectual individual who consistently goes above and beyond to provide exceptional care and comfort to his patients. He lives by the personal motto: “A mission given is a mission complete.”

Jorge’s dedication to his profession and his community has made him an invaluable asset to Umpqua Valley Ambulance. The company is proud to nominate Jorge Garcia as a 2024 Star of Life, honoring his commitment, compassion, and unwavering love for EMS.