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.

Laura has been a member of the AMR team since 2003. She became a Certified First Responder, then an EMT, and served her community as a volunteer at GVEMS/Caledonia Ambulance for six years. During this time, she realized she had found her calling. In 2005, Laura decided it was time to go back to school. In 2006, she attained her Paramedic certification.

In her work as a medic on the overnight shift at AMR, Laura has responded to many disturbingly violent scenes. She and her partner were the unfortunate witnesses of a near-homicide, having arrived on a scene prior to law enforcement to respond to a non-specified emergency incident. Laura cared for the first critical patient on this scene after witnessing that patient’s brutal attack by a pitbull. She maintained her professional demeanor and composure, and requested law enforcement to the scene. This is just one of several high-stress incidents that Laura has responded to in the recent past.

Additionally, Laura has responded to multiple mass shootings over the past several years. While she manages her own emotions, Laura always works hard to help others cope. Laura is a medic who is always available to support others. She continually works to enhance safety in EMS by sharing her experiences with new providers. Laura is a resilient professional, and as a full-time caregiver in a challenging urban environment, she is certainly a most deserving Star.

It is with deep regret that FDNY announced the line of duty death of FDNY EMT Yadira Arroyo on March 16. EMT Arroyo, 44, was assigned to Station 26 in the Bronx and bravely served the Department for 14 years. EMT Arroyo was critically injured while responding to a medical call in the Bronx when an individual seized control of her ambulance and struck her. EMT Arroyo was transported to Jacobi Medical Center where she succumbed to her injuries. EMT Arroyo is the 8th member of FDNY EMS to die in the line of duty, and the 1146th member of the Department to make the Supreme Sacrifice while serving our city.

EMT Arroyo leaves behind a large and close-knit family, including five sons ages 8–24, and her mother, Ms. Leida M. Acevedo-Rosado.

Cheryl was born and raised in Crofton, Maryland. Cheryl became an EMT-Basic in 2006, and served her hometown community for nearly five years. In 2010, Cheryl earned her certificate in Paramedicine from Anne Arundel Community College. Cheryl was then hired by Queen Anne’s County Department of Emergency Services.

Cheryl moved to Troy, New York, in 2015, and joined Mohawk Ambulance Service in February of 2016. Since being hired by Mohawk, Cheryl has proven herself to be a vital asset to the team.

Mohawk Ambulance Service is proud to honor Cheryl as an American Ambulance Association 2017 Star of Life. Cheryl has been recognized by her peers and supervisors as a “lead by example” role model who maintains a consistently positive attitude. In less than one year of employment, Cheryl earned Mohawk Ambulance’s Distinguished Service Award. Cheryl’s commitment to patient care is demonstrated by numerous compliments from patients and patients’ family members. Cheryl genuinely enjoys helping people in a career that presents new challenges every day.

Robert Mazzo began his career as an EMT at the age of 18, in the state of Florida. Throughout his career in Florida, Robert received numerous accolades, specifically for his work during Hurricanes Frances and Jeanne. In March of 2013, Robert took his knowledge and dedication to the New York City 911 system, where he began working for Staten Island University Hospital Northwell Health. In 2016 Robert received the Staten Island Borough Presidents Award for EMT of the Year.

Robert was nominated as a Star of Life by his peers. Robert was selected because of the leadership he brings to difficult situations, and for his commitment to showing kindness and respect to everyone he encounters.

Jason Billington was born and raised in Amsterdam, New York.

Jason served his community as a Volunteer Firefighter and was quickly promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. In 2010 he became an EMT, after attending Fulton-Montgomery Community College for his training.

Jason joined Mohawk Ambulance Service in July 2012 as an EMT, and was soon promoted to Driver. Jason proved himself to be a vital asset through hard work and dedication, and was promoted to Field Training Officer and Driver Trainer.

Jason continues to strive to improve his skills and the skills of his co-workers. Jason enjoys serving the community and spending time with his family. Jason is planning to attend Paramedic School in the near future.

Mohawk Ambulance Service is proud to honor Jason as an American Ambulance Association 2017 Star of Life. Since joining Mohawk, Jason has been recognized with Distinguished Service Awards in 2014 and again in 2016.

Danielle Cohen began her EMS career at the age of 18 as a volunteer for Port Jefferson Ambulance. In 2001, Danielle began working at St. Clare’s Hospital in the Hell’s Kitchen area of Manhattan and was among the first EMS crews to respond to the tragedy on September 11, 2001. In 2002, Danielle began her career at Northwell Health where she has worked both in the field, and in Communications. In her private time, Danielle volunteers to help victims of pediatric cancer, a cause very close to her heart.

Danielle was selected as a Star of Life nominee by her peers for consistently going above the call of duty. Danielle is always available to help her co-workers, both in and out of work. Danielle also volunteers on committees such as Adopt a Family and Bring Your Child to Work Day.

Benjamin “Ben” Cohen left a career as a heating and air conditioning mechanic to pursue his dream of serving in the medical field. Ben began his medical career as a phlebotomist working in a busy emergency room. While observing the ambulances constantly moving in and out of the ER, Ben decided that was where he wanted to be. Ben obtained his EMT certification in 2013 and began working at Northwell Health CEMS shortly thereafter.

Despite Ben being in the early years of his EMS career, he has developed a reputation for being a role model to others and someone who always has a smile on his face. Ben is a leader who always demonstrates the highest level of compassion for his patients. Ben seeks ways to help his department, accepts assignments without hesitation, and consistently maintains a friendly demeanor. Ben was overwhelmingly chosen by his peers as a Star of Life nominee.

William “Bill” Bailey began his career in EMS in June of 1991 when he first received his EMT certification. It was during those initial clinical rotations that Bill knew he wanted to become a paramedic and do more to help those in need. Bill began working at Lenox Hill Hospital Northwell Health in Manhattan in 2000, and was one of the many first responders who answered the call on September 11, 2001. Bill is proud of his profession and believes that answering the call to help those in need is a truly noble endeavor. Bill is also a six year veteran of the United States Coast Guard.

Bill was selected as a Star of Life nominee by his peers for his patience and kindness towards both his patients and co-workers. Thinking not only about his own career progression, Bill has served as an invaluable mentor to countless new medics.

Benjamin “Ben” Cohen left a career as a heating and air conditioning mechanic to pursue his dream of serving in the medical field.

He began his medical career as a phlebotomist working in a busy emergency room. While observing the ambulances constantly moving in and out of the ER, he decided that was where he wanted to be. He obtained his EMT card in 2013 and began working at Northwell Health CEMS shortly thereafter.

While Ben is relatively new to EMS, he has developed a reputation as a role model to others, as someone who always has a smile on his face, and a leader who always demonstrates the highest level of compassion for his patients. Ben seeks ways to help out his department, accepts assignments without complaint, and consistently maintains a friendly demeanor. Ben was overwhelmingly chosen by his peers as a Star of Life.

When he is not working, Ben loves spending time with his two-year-old son, Dylan.

Benedict “Benny” Gatto began his EMS career as a volunteer in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn 30 years ago as a volunteer dispatcher. He became a certified EMT at 19 years old and soon chose EMS as his career path. Over the course of his working life, Benny has received numerous awards, including commendations for his work during the Staten Island Ferry incident of 1995. He is a three-time recipient of the Staten Island Borough President distinguished EMS service award.

Benny has been married for 23 years to his wife, Suzanne, and they are the proud parents of two teenage daughters, Maria, 16, and Nicole, 12. Benny’s hobbies include hunting, fishing, cooking, and amateur radio operations.

Benny was chosen by his peers as a Star of Life for outstanding professionalism as an EMT. He is viewed as a role model due to his commitment to lending a helping hand to fellow staff, as well as his willingness to teach his colleagues. Additionally, he consistently demonstrates the very highest level of compassion for his patients.

Northwell Health CEMS is proud to nominate Benedict Gatto as an American Ambulance Association 2016 Star of Life.

Brandon was hired by Mohawk Ambulance Service in 2011 as an EMT. In just a few months’ time, Brandon’s excellent leadership skills became apparent, and in 2012 he was promoted to supervisor. In 2014, he became a Paramedic, then rose to Station Leader. Because of Brandon’s dedication and expertise, he was able to seamlessly step in for six months to cover for a Regional Manager.

Brandon was born and raised in Gloversville, New York. After an active duty tour in the military, he returned to Gloversville, which he still calls home. He received his Certificate in Paramedicine from SUNY Cobleskill, and has earned two Distinguished Service awards during his tenure at Mohawk. He likes working with others and helping people in a fast-paced, high-stress job.

In Brandon’s spare time he is a volunteer firefighter. He also enjoys spending time in the outdoors hiking, hunting, and fishing.

Mohawk Ambulance Service is proud to honor Brandon as an American Ambulance Association 2016 Star of Life.

Lance Hester perfectly embodies the spirit of EMS. His leadership appears effortless, and he is known for always finding a creative solution to problems, no matter how big or small. Lance’s talent led him to progress professionally over the years, rising through the ranks of EMT, Paramedic, Field Training Officer, Critical Care Transport Paramedic, and, most recently, overnight Shift Commander.

Last fall, Lance responded as the supervisor in charge to a mass shooting at a local Boys and Girls Club. His command decisions impacting patient care and responder safety and thoughtful actions on the scene earned the praise of many of his colleagues and fellow responding agencies. While this critical incident stands out, Lance commands the respect and admiration of all who have the privilege of working alongside him.

Ian’s passion for EMS began more than 20 years ago when he witnessed paramedics in action treating a shooting victim. At that moment he realized that EMS was his calling.

He decided to become an EMT and subsequently, a paramedic. Ian has a true passion for EMS, and takes great pride in knowing that he can make a difference in the lives of others.

His peers at Northwell Health CEMS chose Ian as a Star of Life because he is both a role model for others and someone who demonstrates the utmost compassion for his patients and coworkers. To deepen his knowledge and skills even further, Ian plans to become an EMS instructor.

Ian and his wife, Claudia, are the proud parents to four-year-old Maria. He enjoys spending time with family and fishing.

Northwell is proud to recognize Ian Joseph as a 2016 American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Eric, who started his career in EMS while in the military, was involved in two very high profile incidents where his courageous and noble actions were highlighted. He now often provides guidance to fellow team members that have experienced difficult calls about how to best cope and move forward in a positive manner. Also, Eric’s communication with patients and families exemplifies the standards of an EMS provider by ensuring both are comfortable and confident that the best care is being rendered.

One area that stands out when talking about Eric is how he was so determined to adjust to civilian life and overcome the challenges of his time in the military. He hopes his experience will help others that are returning home and addressing similar challenges. Eric is currently pursuing his paramedic certification with the same determination and dedication that he has shown in all other aspects of his life.

David Spangler was hired as an EMT in 2012 and has worked at Mohawk Ambulance Service for over four years. David graduated from SUNY at Buffalo Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. After graduation, David moved to Guilderland, New York and decided that he wanted to gain real life experience, so he began his career in the field of emergency medical services. David received his Certificate in Paramedicine from Hudson Valley Community College and in 2015 was promoted to Paramedic.

In December of 2015, David received one of Mohawk Ambulance Services Distinguished Service Awards. He enjoys working in a fast paced, demanding career that requires a high level of medical knowledge and hands-on training.

In his spare time, David enjoys hiking the high peaks of the Adirondack Mountains and is close to completing all 46 peaks over 4,000 feet.