Monte has had a big impact on both his community and the patients he serves as well as his fellow EMS professionals during his 14-year career as a Paramedic. He has served communities in both Iowa and South Dakota as a Paramedic and firefighter, finally working for Sioux Falls.

As a veteran Paramedic, Monte put his experience and knowledge to good use by shaping the lives and careers of future EMS professionals through his adjunct work for The School of EMS, his management of continuing education, the time he spent as a field training officer, and his encouragement and skill as an instructor for certification courses.

His leadership has been crucial in his work as an operations supervisor. Monte recently worked on the team tapped to oversee implementation of a new and complex computer-aided dispatch system. He was responsible for making sure the mobile terminals used by crews for patient reports worked well and efficiently.

Monte is a trusted and integral member of the Paramedics Plus family. Both our community and our service have benefited hugely from Monte’s exceptional dedication to them. We are honored to nominate him as a Star of Life.

Dale is a Paramedic Field Training Officer for the Three Rivers Ambulance Authority in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Several of his peers nominated Dale for his growth from EMT to Paramedic to Field Training Officer. They cite his professionalism, his dedication to providing the best care for each patient he treats, and his ability to train new employees and ensure they are successful.

A veteran Paramedic who recently started working at TRAA complemented Dale on his knowledge and training abilities, praising him for his patience and encouragement as he helped the Paramedic learn the ropes at TRAA and make a smooth transition.

Dale is also commended for always displaying a positive attitude at work and making the job enjoyable for everyone.

Chris began his career as a volunteer firefighter, where he assisted the ambulance crew. Chris quickly became engulfed in EMS, and proceeded to obtain his basic EMT certification. Chris excelled, and within a few short years, returned to school to earn his advanced EMT certification. Chris then began working for one of the largest EMS providers in Northeast Indiana.

Chris progressed quickly, and was selected as a member of the Disaster Relief team. Chris was deployed to Hurricane Katrina in 2005, where he assisted others in the face of total devastation.

As a field training officer, Chris mentors and guides new employees on a daily basis, instilling in them the same values he exemplifies.

Chris embodies the mission and values of Paramedics Plus, which include compassionate quality care and service. Chris has received numerous commendations from patients, family members, other organizations, and coworkers alike. Chris also volunteers his time with the Boy Scouts, church organizations, and explorer programs.

Chris exemplifies the vision of this organization through his commitment to going above and beyond to provide the best care possible for patients and families. Chris maintains a positive attitude and outlook, and consistently seeks ways to improve the organization, others, and himself. Chris is a true asset in the field of EMS.

Lorrane “Lory” started her EMS career in Sioux Falls in 1994. Since that time, Lory has served as a Paramedic, Field Training Officer, Flight Paramedic and Field Supervisor. Lory has managed multiple areas of ambulance operations ranging from scheduling to supplies. Over the years, Lory has served as the liaison to the rural Fire Department in the area, including currently serving as the peer coordinator for the CISM Team. In her spare time, Lory serves locally as a volunteer Firefighter and EMT for her local community of Valley Springs.

Lory has faithfully served in her community since 1994. During this time, Lory’s dedication to her community has been fundamental to her success in EMS. Lory continually demonstrates the actions and values of an EMS professional, and is a role model to those around her. Whether volunteering as an EMT and Firefighter in Valley Springs or the serving as the peer coordinator of the local CISM Team, Lory can be found serving in her community long after her shift is over. Lory is well respected among the local volunteer services and she is a vital member of the Paramedics Plus Sioux Falls Family.