Jacob Monser is an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Lieutenant with Mohawk Ambulance whose path to EMS is defined by service, purpose, and a determination to make a difference in the lives of others.

Born in Cooperstown, New York, Jacob spent much of his childhood between Troy and Cherry Valley. He grew up riding dirt bikes and working on small engines, developing an early appreciation for hands-on work and adventure. Later, Jacob joined the United States Marine Corps, an experience that profoundly shaped his character, discipline, habits, and outlook on life.

After leaving the Marine Corps, Jacob spent several years searching for the sense of purpose he had once found through military service. That changed when he came across a job listing for EMTs at Mohawk Ambulance. What initially appeared to be an opportunity to begin a new career quickly became something far more meaningful.

Jacob joined Mohawk Ambulance approximately a year and a half ago and soon realized that EMS was where he wanted to build his future. In that relatively short time, he has demonstrated his potential as both a provider and leader, earning a promotion to Lieutenant.

Jacob draws inspiration not only from the opportunity to help patients, but also from the EMS professionals who have dedicated decades of their lives to serving others. He admires those who have built careers around being present for people on some of the most difficult days of their lives. Their example has helped shape his own vision of a lifelong career in EMS.

Outside of work, Jacob is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys staying active year-round. During the warmer months, he spends weekends backpacking and is working toward becoming an Adirondack 46er. When winter arrives, he can often be found on the slopes freestyle skiing. He also enjoys bouldering, bow hunting, and fishing.

Whether serving patients on an ambulance, leading colleagues as a Lieutenant, or challenging himself in the outdoors, Jacob brings the same sense of purpose, discipline, and determination that has shaped him throughout his life. Mohawk Ambulance is proud to recognize Jacob Monser as a Star of Life.

Tina Spittler has dedicated 19 years to Mohawk Ambulance, serving 11 years in the field before transitioning to dispatch, where she has spent the past eight years supporting crews from behind the microphone. Throughout her career, one thing has remained constant: Tina’s desire to be there for people when they need someone most.

That calling began long before Tina entered EMS. As a child, she remembers chasing fire trucks and ambulances just to see where they were going. Even then, she wanted to be the person others could count on during their most difficult and vulnerable moments—to offer reassurance, hold a hand, and remind someone that they were not alone.

Before pursuing that dream, Tina devoted herself to her family. She raised two sons, largely on her own, and spent many years caring for her mother as she lived with dementia. Following her mother’s passing, Tina decided it was time to pursue the career she had always felt called to. She became an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and joined Mohawk Ambulance.

During 11 years on the ambulance, Tina cared for people from all walks of life. Those experiences strengthened her, deepened her compassion, and reinforced a principle that continues to guide her: Every person deserves to be treated with dignity and compassion, regardless of who they are, where they live, or the circumstances that brought them into her care.

Today, Tina continues her service as a dispatcher. Although the demands are different, she embraces the responsibility of supporting crews throughout their shifts. Tina describes the dispatch center as a well-oiled machine where colleagues become friends and, ultimately, family. She takes tremendous pride in doing everything she can to help crews reach their patients and return home safely.

After nearly two decades with Mohawk Ambulance, Tina remains grateful to be living the dream she carried with her since childhood. She is equally proud to serve an organization she believes cares deeply about its employees and the communities they serve.

Outside of work, Tina enjoys fishing with her husband, who competes in fishing tournaments. Some of her favorite moments, however, are the quiet ones—kayaking, reading a good book, listening to music, and simply appreciating the world around her. These moments give her an opportunity to recharge after a career spent caring for and supporting others.

From the ambulance to the dispatch center, Tina has devoted her career to ensuring that people know someone is there when they need help. Her compassion, perseverance, and commitment to patients and crews embody the spirit of a Star of Life. Mohawk Ambulance is proud to recognize Tina Spittler as a Star of Life.

Lester Freemantle’s lifelong commitment to emergency medical services began in the small town of Pittstown in Rensselaer County, New York. Inspired by his two older brothers, who helped establish their hometown ambulance service, Lester enrolled in an American Red Cross Advanced First Aid course at just 15 years old. By 16, he was already riding on the ambulance and serving his community.

At 17, Lester was encouraged to pursue New York State EMT certification. After completing the course, he was recruited for instructor training and soon began teaching American Red Cross Advanced First Aid and assisting with EMT classes—all while still a teenager. Those early experiences began a lifelong commitment not only to caring for patients, but also to educating and developing others.

After high school, Lester joined a paid ambulance service and, in 1982, became one of the organization’s first Paramedics. In November 1984, he joined Mohawk Ambulance Service and quickly advanced into a supervisory role. During more than four decades with Mohawk, Lester has served in numerous leadership positions, including Supervisor, Manager, and Regional Manager. In November 2024, he renewed his Emergency Medical Technician certification and currently serves as a Captain.

Lester’s influence extends far beyond his individual agency. Throughout his career, he has been deeply involved in EMS at the local, regional, and statewide levels, serving on county EMS committees, the Regional EMS Council, and the New York State Emergency Medical Services Council (SEMSCO). He has also served as a board member and chair of the United New York Ambulance Network (UNYAN).

Through these roles, Lester has worked alongside counties, hospitals, state agencies, and other EMS stakeholders on issues affecting providers and ambulance services throughout New York. As chair of SEMSCO’s Legislative Committee, he has contributed to work involving EMS legislation, regulations, funding initiatives, and reimbursement. His service has also included collaboration with the New York State Office of Emergency Management, the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, and the New York State Sepsis Committee.

Despite the breadth of his accomplishments, one of the most rewarding aspects of Lester’s career has been watching others grow and succeed. He takes tremendous pride in seeing colleagues develop within the organization and continue building meaningful careers of their own. After decades as an instructor, supervisor, manager, advocate, and mentor, his influence can be seen in generations of EMS professionals.

That legacy extends to Lester’s own family. He is the proud father of two children, both of whom are involved in EMS, and a grandfather of five. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his family and tackling projects around his home and yard.

From entering EMS as a teenager to becoming a respected leader and advocate with more than four decades of service at Mohawk Ambulance, Lester has devoted his life to strengthening emergency medical services and the people who provide them. Mohawk Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Lester Freemantle as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Claire Marie Teal, a lifelong resident of Averill Park, New York, serves as a Lieutenant Paramedic with Mohawk Ambulance, where she has worked for the past three and a half years.

Her path to EMS began with an interest in nursing. She attended nursing school and worked as a technician at Albany Medical Center for approximately two years. Through that experience, she ultimately discovered that EMS was where she felt she belonged and where she could make the greatest impact.

What inspires her most about EMS is the opportunity to help people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. She approaches each call with an important perspective: While certain emergencies may be exciting or interesting from a clinical standpoint, they often represent the worst day of a patient’s life. Keeping that reality at the forefront has shaped the compassionate and thoughtful way she cares for those she serves.

She finds particular meaning in making a positive impact on both a patient’s care and their overall experience. EMS professionals often encounter the same patients regularly because of chronic health conditions, and she values the relationships that develop through those interactions. Being recognized by a patient and seeing the sense of relief that comes from encountering a familiar, trusted caregiver can be just as meaningful as responding to the most serious emergencies.

Outside of EMS, she enjoys cooking and baking, hiking with her dog, and spending time with animals. She also operates a pet-sitting business, which gives her the opportunity to care for and spend time with animals of all kinds.

Through her compassion, clinical service, and commitment to treating every patient with dignity and understanding, she represents the values at the heart of emergency medical services. Mohawk Ambulance is proud to recognize her as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Sara Sanders grew up in Ballston Spa, New York, with her parents and two older brothers. From a young age, she felt called to a life of service, first imagining a future as a veterinarian because of her love for animals. While pursuing her college studies, however, she realized her true passion lay in helping people. That realization, combined with encouragement from her mother, a registered nurse, inspired her to pursue a career in emergency medical services.

Sara’s path to EMS was also shaped by personal experience. Diagnosed with Von Willebrand’s disease as a child, she spent significant time in hospitals and was deeply moved by the compassion of the caregivers who supported her. She also recalls the EMS providers who cared for her during medical emergencies and transports, leaving her with a lasting impression of the dedication and kindness of first responders.

Since joining Mohawk Ambulance Service, Sara has found both a career and a family. She credits her colleagues with helping her grow into the clinician she is today and says that EMS has shown her “the worst of the worst and the best of the best,” while surrounding her with an amazing network of support. Looking ahead, Sara plans to further her training by becoming a Paramedic and ultimately hopes to earn her RN license.

Mohawk Ambulance Service is honored to celebrate Sara Sanders as a Star of Life for her compassion, resilience, and commitment to the patients and communities she serves.

Mohawk Ambulance Service proudly recognizes Paramedic Alyssa McMullen as a Star of Life.

Born in Yonkers, New York, and raised in Saratoga Springs, Alyssa began her career in healthcare in 2015 as a Patient Care Technician in the Critical Care Department at Albany Memorial Hospital. While she valued her time caring for critically ill patients, Alyssa soon discovered that the hospital setting was not where she felt most at home.

In December 2018, Alyssa enrolled in the EMT program at Hudson Valley Community College. Like many who find their calling in EMS, she quickly fell in love with the work and never looked back. She went on to complete HVCC’s Paramedic program, graduating in the fall of 2020.

Although she did not come from a family of first responders, Alyssa has always had strong support from her loved ones. Her mother, brother, and stepfather have encouraged her from day one, and she carries with her the memory of her late father, who passed away when she was 17. Alyssa shares that, while her father was not the reason she entered EMS, she believes he would be proud of her accomplishments today.

When she is not working, Alyssa enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her significant other, Justin, as well as her Mohawk Ambulance colleagues, who have become like a second family. She is known among her peers for her compassion, dedication, and warm spirit. Looking ahead, she plans to pursue her Critical Care certification and continue to grow in the career that has become her true passion.

Jeanine Hasenkopf’s EMS journey began long before she earned her first certification. Growing up in Albany, she often visited her mother at work, where she helped dispatch ambulances from a local answering service. Even as a child, she was inspired by her mother’s example of service, which included preparing holiday meals for on-duty ambulance crews and police officers. Jeanine fondly recalls “dispatching Uncle Ray” to calls, an early hint at the career path that would eventually define her.

After raising her four children, Jeanine pursued her long-standing calling to help others by becoming an Emergency Medical Technician at the age of 39. From there, she advanced quickly, completing Critical Care training, earning her Paramedic license, and serving as both a lab and course instructor. She is proud of the many students she has mentored, whom she affectionately refers to as her “kids.”

Although an injury ended her time in the field, Jeanine’s early passion for dispatch naturally resurfaced. Today, she serves as Chief Supervisor Dispatch at Mohawk Ambulance Service, where she ensures operations run smoothly and supports her team with skill and dedication. She reluctantly retired her Paramedic certification but remains deeply connected to EMS and grateful for the many colleagues who have shaped her career.

Outside of work, Jeanine enjoys tending to her garden and caring for the animals on her small hobby farm. She is blessed with four children, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Jeanine’s warmth, resilience, and lifelong commitment to service make her an extraordinary member of the Mohawk Ambulance family.

Mohawk Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Jeanine Hasenkopf as a Star of Life.

Richard Byerwalters III has dedicated his life to public service, inspired by his father, a Fire Chief and Paramedic, to pursue a career in emergency services. He began volunteering with the Ravena Hose Company and Rescue Squad in 1996 and joined Mohawk Ambulance Service in 1998. After becoming a Paramedic in 2003, Richard served in multiple roles across local agencies—including EMT, Paramedic, and SCT Paramedic—before advancing to his current position as District Chief at Mohawk Ambulance.

Richard holds degrees in Paramedicine from Hudson Valley Community College and Fire Protection Technology from SUNY Schenectady County Community College. Throughout his nearly three decades of service, he has been recognized as a skilled clinician and respected leader who always places patients, colleagues, and community first.

At home in North Greenbush, Richard enjoys life with his wife Melissa—an RN and his former ambulance partner—their son Ricky, now a high school senior, and their pets Maggie, Ezra, and Luca. In his free time, he loves traveling, visiting theme parks (especially Walt Disney World), exploring Lake George, and discovering new corners of the Northeast.

Richard credits his mentors, colleagues, the McPartlon family, Mohawk Ambulance Service, and his loved ones for their unwavering support throughout his career. Mohawk Ambulance Service is proud to recognize District Chief and Paramedic Richard Byerwalters III as a Star of Life.

Jacob Gilmore, an EMT with Mohawk Ambulance Service since 2021, has been immersed in the world of EMS for as long as he can remember. Inspired by his father, a Paramedic and leader in the EMS community, Jacob grew up surrounded by the ambulances, equipment, and the warm, family-like culture of the station. From an early age, he eagerly participated in company events, such as holiday parades and Mohawk’s Covid-19 Vaccine Clinics, which solidified his passion for the field.

Jacob’s formal journey in EMS began as a dispatch intern with Mohawk, and at just 17 years old, while still attending high school full-time, he enrolled in the company’s evening EMT class. In the two years since earning his diploma, Jacob has grown into a conscientious and trusted provider. His leadership skills have shone through as a Field Training Officer (FTO) and a well-respected Lab Instructor with Mohawk’s Education Center.

Always striving to advance his education and skills, Jacob is currently studying Paramedicine with plans to pursue his critical care certification, EMS nursing, and leadership and management in EMS. His dedication to the field and passion for continuous improvement make him a true asset to Mohawk Ambulance Service, and the company eagerly anticipates his continued success.

Aidan Enders was born, raised, and still lives in the small rural town of Duanesburg, New York. He attributes to this hometown his success, dedication, and work ethic.

Aidan started his career in public safety at the young age of 10, invited by the local fire chief to clean tables at the pancake breakfast. The more he hung around the firehouse, the more his interest in becoming a first responder was piqued. After joining the fire company at 12 as a junior firefighter, Aidan really knew this was the path for him. In 2019, Aidan was one of the first in New York State to become certified as an EMT at just 17, two months after his birthday.

In November 2019, Aidan began his journey with Mohawk Ambulance Service. Aidan worked through his senior year of high school, which also meant working through the COVID-19 pandemic. When Aidan’s high school dismissed in March 2020, he began working full time hours at MAS to help with the significantly increased workload. After graduation, Aidan continued to work full time and fell in love with the job. The busy shifts with dynamic calls only drove Aidan’s passion for the job. In September 2022, Aidan decided to take the next step in his career and enrolled in Mohawk Valley Health Systems Paramedic Program. Aidan would earn certifications as a Paramedic through both New York State and the National Registry.

From a young age, leadership has been a passion of Aidan’s. In March 2023, Aidan was promoted to Supervisor and just this year, in June 2024, Aidan was promoted to Chief Supervisor. Being a frontline leader during his shifts is Aidan’s favorite thing about working at Mohawk Ambulance Service. Aidan enjoys interacting with the crews, problem solving, and ensuring the operational needs of the agency are met. Aidan’s favorite motto is “lead from the front.”

In Aidan’s free time he enjoys being with his fiancé, Hannah, his lifelong best friends, and his family. Aidan is still an active member of the Delanson Fire Company in the town where his journey in public safety began many years ago. Aidan would like to thank everyone who helped him throughout his career and hopes to repay his mentors by one day mentoring a young provider, as he once was.

Larry Fort, Jr. embodies dedication and excellence in the EMS realm. As a Specialty Care Transport (SCT) Paramedic with Mohawk Ambulance, the highest level of care within our organization, Larry consistently advocates for and provides unparalleled care to all his patients. His commitment to healthcare is evident not only in his interactions with patients but also in his role as a mentor.

Born in Cobleskill Hospital and raised in Schoharie County, Larry has always shown a passion for serving his community. From his early days as a volunteer with Richmondville Ambulance in 1997 to joining the Mohawk family in 1999, he has built an impressive career spanning over two decades in EMS.

Beyond his professional responsibilities, Larry is a dedicated practitioner of Uechi Ryu karate. Over the past two years, he has channeled his discipline and focus into this martial art, earning the rank of green belt. His varied interests also include shooting at the range, enjoying summer BBQs, and spending cherished moments with friends and family by the pool. Larry, alongside his wife, extends his compassion and care as foster parents, assisting with respites as needed.

A graduate from SUNY Cobleskill with a Paramedic degree in 2015, Larry continues to give back to the next generation. He shines as a mentor, guiding new paramedics and paramedic students, setting an example of excellence and professionalism. Outside the realm of healthcare, Larry aspires to bring joy to others through music, having recently embarked on an exciting venture as a mobile DJ.

For his unwavering dedication, passion, and commitment to both Mohawk Ambulance and the community at large, we are proud to honor Larry Fort, Jr. with the Stars of Life award.

Paramedic Chief Supervisor Adedeji Adebayo’s journey with Mohawk Ambulance is a testament to his dedication and hard work. Born and raised in The Bronx, New York, Adedeji began his mobile healthcare journey during high school, successfully completing the EMT course with FDNY EMS in 2010. Following high school, his thirst for knowledge took him further north to college in upstate New York.

Joining Mohawk Ambulance in 2012, Adedeji has, over the last 11 years, made significant contributions to the team. His journey from an EMT supervisor to his current role as Chief Supervisor Paramedic reflects his commitment and the valuable skills he’s acquired along the way. While his sporting interests spanned from baseball in middle school and high school to weekend paintball sessions, his devotion to his profession took precedence due to his increasing responsibilities.

Influenced by a teacher’s encouragement to persevere during challenging times, Adedeji has remained motivated, aiming to make a positive impact in the communities Mohawk Ambulance serves. His commitment goes beyond patient care. As Chief Supervisor, Adedeji takes immense pride in his station and team. He consistently looks out for every member, ensuring their well-being throughout the company.

Additionally, Adedeji’s expertise as an Emergent Vent Medic showcases his depth of knowledge in the field. He is a mentor and a beacon for Paramedic students, preparing them to be self-sufficient and competent medics. With his guidance and leadership, Mohawk Ambulance remains confident in its ability to deliver exceptional care to the community.

Adedeji has worked his way up the ranks to Chief Supervisor who takes pride in his station and his employees. Not only does he provide excellent patient care, he also looks our for every employee, not only in his station but throughout the company. Adedeji is an Emergent Vent Medic as well as a mentor and role model for Paramedic students. He also prepares our new medics to be strong independent Paramedics on their own.

Gabriel Swart was raised in the small town of Saugerties, NY with his parents and two brothers. He and his brothers have always shared a strong bond and grew up doing everything together, from snowboarding and biking to playing video games and LEGO. They always enjoyed spending time together and have always encouraged each other to strive for greatness.

Gabe believes his interest in EMS began as a result of his brother’s illness. His younger brother was diagnosed with leukemia three times over the course of his childhood. Watching the doctors and nurses perform miracles for his brother inspired Gabe to want to help others as well. He knew he wanted to pursue a career in the medical field, and thought EMS seemed to be the best way to fulfill his goal.

Gabe began his career at Mohawk Ambulance Service in February 2019 and has quickly become a valuable leader. He has become a Field Training Officer and is instrumental in welcoming and training new hires. Gabe sets an example for all who are around him in regards to professionalism and how to be a respectful leader, and he exemplifies what it means to be a hard worker and a great caregiver.

Of his nomination as a 2022 Star of Life, Gabe says, “This is a great honor for me. I have such a passion for EMS and it is such a privilege to work with my friends and to serve the people of Albany Capital District. Mohawk is a home away from home, and I feel proud to say I’m an asset to the team.”

Gabe strives to always help others and to be the best patient care provider he can be. He aspires to soon become a Paramedic.

David Battaglia is an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) and Driver Trainer with Mohawk Ambulance Service. He joined the company in 2017, but his career as a first responder dates back to 2012 when he began volunteering with his hometown fire department, Niskayuna Fire District 2.

At the start of 2019, David took on the additional role of Driver Trainer, working with new hires to set forth expectations of what it truly means to be a mobile healthcare professional and Mohawk Ambulance employee.

David truly appreciates each and every moment he is able to experience as a first responder, and enjoys the sense of fulfillment when he is able to make a positive impact in the lives of others. His work ethic and dedication to others have not gone unnoticed. Last year, David was awarded the Distinguished Service Award from Mohawk Ambulance. He notes that the nomination from his peers to receive the Star of Life has been his greatest professional accomplishment thus far.

Having worked as a volunteer firefighter and EMT, David recognizes that public service is one of the greater gifts we can give. Outside of work, he continually looks for ways in which he can volunteer his time to charitable causes. He exemplifies the core values of Mohawk Ambulance Service and the company is proud to have him as part of our crew.  We look forward to his continued growth in the field of emergency medical services.

John Large began his EMT career as an explorer with Mohawk Ambulance at the age of 13. John has now worked for Mohawk Ambulance for 31 years.

Not only does John treat every patient as if he is caring for his own family, he affords his every colleague the same respect. John is well-rounded in every aspect of emergency services. In addition to his work as an EMT, John has also been a volunteer firefighter and officer for 38 years.

John always goes a above and beyond the call of duty. When there is a serious call, John will respond from the station, or from home, and assist the crews in any way he can. John is always willing to lend an ear; should it be to crews after a difficult call or helping his colleagues with work or personal problems. On holidays, during extreme weather conditions, and just on long, busy days, John always makes sure that his crews are properly fed and taken care of. John has earned the respect of the entire Mohawk Ambulance family.

John is the ultimate team player and treats everyone with respect, regardless of rank. He is known by his peers to be dedicated, committed, hardworking, professional, and kind.

John has devoted his life to public service in EMS and as a volunteer firefighter. John has earned the utmost respect from Mohawk’s employees, our volunteer and municipal fire departments, and his patients alike. It is an honor and privilege to work side by side with John. 

Adam Nato began his career in EMS volunteering with Castleton Fire/Ambulance, where he acquired his EMT card in 2009. He was hired at Mohawk Ambulance Service in December of 2016 as a Dispatcher for the Communications Department. After a few months, he began working regularly in the ambulance as an EMT. Adam received a Distinguished Service Award in December of 2017 for his hard work. His continuous dedication and professionalism quickly landed him a position as Supervisor, and soon after, Chief Supervisor, where he assists with ePCRs for the company.

Adam is equally as active outside of work as he is on the clock. He enjoys competing in marathons, attending and participating in sporting events, skiing, and hunting. He also takes frequent getaways with his girlfriend and two dogs. He still volunteers in his free time, but now with Defreestville Fire Department which is close to his home.

We are very proud to have an employee such as Adam Nato on our team, and look forward to his continued  growth with Mohawk Ambulance Service.

Julia Erin Westcott was born and raised in Schenectady, New York, the community she now serves. She is an EMT-B and Field Training Officer for new hires and students at Mohawk Ambulance Service. She is hardworking, extremely passionate, and a dedicated and reliable part of the Mohawk Ambulance family.

Julia began working for Mohawk as a new EMT-B at the young age of 20. She was fortunate enough to participate in a collaborative program between YouthBuild of Schenectady and Mohawk Ambulance. She took her EMT course at Schenectady County Community College in the summer of 2009 and spent a shift or so a week in the ambulance, in addition to her training. Once certified, Julia was pretty much guaranteed a job a Mohawk. Mohawk now does a something similar with their free EMT program offered in Albany, New York.

“Many EMS providers start young and with no previous medical experience, similar to myself. Mohawk has always been great for adopting and raising the young and eager. It has now been almost ten years since I started. My role is even more unique because I have only ever worked in the back of the ambulance as an attendant. I have treated thousands of patients. As a Field Training Officer, I have been responsible for training new EMTs and students to be good providers,” states Westcott.

Julia has certifications as an EMT-B and in CPR, as well as certifications for Medical Assisting and Phlebotomy. She also has a Health Studies Certificate from Schenectady County Community College, an associate degree in applied science in medical assisting from Bryant & Stratton College, a year of undergraduate education in Psychology from St. Rose College, and is currently a year into an associate degree in nursing at Maria College.

As a dedicated employee of Mohawk Ambulance Service, Julia has received the Distinguished Service Award at Mohawk the last two years in a row. When asked about her time at Mohawk, Julia says, “My favorite part of my job is being able to help train young new and excited EMTs. I love the teaching part of the job. Overall I just enjoy working in healthcare. Helping others is the most important task we can achieve in this world.” Julia states that EMS is special in the sense that “we are the first ones to arrive when people call for help. Those who choose to work in this field do so not for money or recognition, but because they genuinely care and want to make a difference. To be able to care for someone on their worst day and make it just a little bit better is truly inspiring. That’s why I continue to provide the best quality care I can to those in need.”

In her spare time, Julia has an intense passion for music. “I thought growing up that I would be a singer. I never even thought of healthcare as an option until I got into it. A lot of people don’t know this artistic side of me. I used to write my own songs, poetry, stories, etc. I also used to be able to draw really well but never kept up with it. I now see this artistic flare in my son. I am a mother to an almost eleven year old boy, who is my driving force for all that I do. I want to show him that with hard work you can accomplish whatever you set your mind to.”

Mohawk Ambulance Service would like to recognize Julia Westcott for all that she does, not only for the company, but also for the entire capital region of New York State. Mohawk is extremely lucky to have Julia as a part of their team and looks forward to a long and rewarding future with her.

The only place offering organized youth activities in the community in which Ernest “Skip” Bebernitz grew up was the local firehouse where he joined the Cub and Boy Scouts and also their drum corps. To give back to the fire department for the experiences they provided him while he was growing up, Skip became an EMT and began his lifelong commitment to service. Skip has been in EMS for 44 years including 28 years with Mohawk Ambulance Service and he also continues to volunteer with the Speigletown Fire Department. In all his years in EMS, Skip has done and seen a lot. When Skip was the Chief of Speigletown Fire Department in 1985 – 86 an Incident Command Structure was instituted based on the City of Phoenix model and he also developed an ALS Intercept Program between the BLS ambulance service and the two commercial ALS providers. He was deployed, with a Mohawk Ambulance contingent, to the Gulf Coast during Hurricane Katrina and, since becoming a Paramedic with Mohawk in 1988, Skip has either been the team leader or a team member in a remarkable 7 cardiac arrest reversals. Skip is not only a Supervisor and Paramedic at Mohawk Ambulance but he also had a very distinguished career in the Army National Guard and the Army Reserves, where he spent 22 Â_ years in Drill Status and 16 Â_ years in Retired Reserve Status before retiring as a Major with an impressive 38 years, 9 months and 14 days of service to our Country. It is easy to see that service is very important to Skip. Toward that end he continues to serve as an active member of Military Officers of America (he’s on the Board of the local chapter), National Guard Association of the US, the National Association of Uniformed Services and the Association of the US Army. Skip also serves as the EMS QI Committee Chair for Rensselaer County, New York. His years of experience in both emergency services and the military allow Skip to serve as a mentor and role model for the employees at Mohawk Ambulance and it is for his continuous contributions to EMS both at the agency and regional level that Skip is being honored as a “Star of Life”. Skip and his wife, Mary Lou, are celebrating their 25th Anniversary this year and returning to Washington, DC, their honeymoon destination, which adds to his appreciation of the Star of Life Award.”

Rebekah Garcia was born and raised in East Greenbush, New York. She had been working in the healthcare field for several years as an Albany Medical Center ED Patient Care Technician when she made the move over to Mohawk Ambulance Service as an EMT. In the three short years since joining our team, Rebekah has come to embody the core spirit of the job. Rebekah has time and again proven herself to be an asset.

Rebekah challenged herself to complete her certificate of Paramedicine at Hudson Valley Community College. She now serves as Paramedic and as a well-respected Field Training Officer for our newer employees. Her exemplary work has earned her our Distinguished Service Award, which while prestigious is unremarkable in comparison to the multiple compliments and regards she receives from her patients.

In addition to providing superior and compassionate healthcare for her own patients, Rebekah has indirectly impacted the lives of many others by being a leader and always setting a good example. She has proven to be an exceptional role model to her colleagues, and has become an invaluable member of our family. Rebekah has demonstrated that a combination of hard work, dedication, and resilience is an unstoppable force leading to a bright future.

Mohawk Ambulance Service is proud to announce Paramedic Rebekah Garcia as a 2018 American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Wendy joined Mohawk Ambulance Service in October 1987 as a part-time in-house collections agent. She’s proved invaluable to the company from day one, and she developed not only Mohawk’s first in-house collections department but also the company’s first front-end verification department.

Wendy’s exceptional leadership skills led to her promotion to Business Office Manager in 2004. Four years later, she was appointed as Compliance Officer for Mohawk, and she has provided outstanding guidance and attention to this important role for the company.

Ambulance providers in New York State and across the country value Wendy as a resource, getting to know her through her involvement in both the state and national ambulance associations. Wendy has held leadership roles in the American Ambulance Association (AAA) and the United New York Ambulance Network (UNYAN).

She was the chairwoman of the AAA Medicare Regulatory Work Group and continues to be an active member of this group. In addition, she has been the Reimbursement Chairwoman for UNYAN since 2010.

Each and every day of Wendy’s 30 years of service with Mohawk she demonstrates her dedication to improve ambulance services, and she is a valuable member of the Mohawk Ambulance management team.

When she’s not working, Wendy enjoys spending time with her three daughters and her husband of 38 years, and she is anxiously awaiting the arrival of her first grandchild.