Gary Wadham is a Flight Paramedic with Air Evac Lifeteam (AEL) in Killeen, Texas, whose quick thinking, teamwork, and clinical expertise helped save the life of a critically injured patient following a vehicle collision.

Gary responded to a patient suffering from life-threatening injuries that presented significant challenges for stabilization and transport. Faced with a complex situation, he used innovative problem-solving to help stabilize the patient and prepare them for safe transport to definitive care.

Working closely with local responders and his flight team, Gary helped coordinate the patient’s care while adapting to the challenges presented by the injuries. Once airborne, he continued providing advanced care throughout the flight to a Level I trauma center, helping give the patient the best possible chance of survival.

The patient survived and was ultimately discharged from the hospital. The successful outcome reflected the coordinated efforts of everyone involved in the response, with Gary’s clinical skill, adaptability, and teamwork playing an important role.

Gary’s actions demonstrate the expertise and composure required of critical care transport professionals when circumstances demand both advanced clinical care and creative problem-solving. Air Evac Lifeteam is proud to recognize Flight Paramedic Gary Wadham as a Star of Life.

Blake Hoelscher is a Flight Nurse with Air Evac Lifeteam (AEL) in Killeen, Texas, whose clinical skill, composure, and adaptability were critical during an exceptionally challenging trauma response.

Blake responded after a high-speed motor vehicle collision left a driver critically injured. Working closely with his partner and local fire crews, Blake helped navigate the significant challenges presented by the patient’s injuries. The team carefully removed an obstruction and provided lifesaving care while preparing the patient for air transport.

Faced with an extraordinarily difficult clinical situation, Blake helped develop an innovative positioning strategy that allowed the team to stabilize the patient and maintain viability for transport. Once airborne, he continued aggressively managing the patient’s condition, adapting care as necessary and working to give the patient the best possible chance of reaching definitive treatment.

The patient arrived at a Level I trauma center and ultimately survived. The successful outcome reflected a coordinated effort among everyone involved in the response, with Blake’s clinical expertise, problem-solving, and ability to remain composed under extreme circumstances playing an important role.

Blake’s actions demonstrate the combination of technical skill, teamwork, and sound judgment required of critical care transport professionals when conventional solutions may not be enough. Air Evac Lifeteam is proud to recognize Flight Nurse Blake Hoelscher as a Star of Life.

Micah Lorenz began her EMS career with a clear commitment to serving others. After completing EMT and Paramedic training at EMTS Academy, she joined Austin-Travis County EMS (ATCEMS) in 2018. She quickly distinguished herself as a skilled clinician, dedicated public servant, and emerging leader whose humility and willingness to serve have defined her career.

In 2021, Micah became the first female Paramedic to join the ATCEMS Tactical Team in its current configuration, demonstrating the clinical excellence, physical readiness, and commitment required for one of the department’s specialized operational roles. She has also served as a single-unit response Paramedic, responding independently during periods of high system demand to bring advanced clinical expertise directly to patients and support field crews when resources are stretched thin.

Micah’s professional advancement has been equally notable. Promoted to Captain, she went on to serve as a Training Captain in both the BLS Academy and Clinical Specialist Academy, helping prepare the next generation of ATCEMS providers. As an educator and mentor, Micah is known for being warm and approachable, creating an environment where new clinicians feel comfortable asking questions, developing their skills, and growing in confidence. She continues to advance as a leader and is on track for promotion to Commander.

Her commitment to colleagues extends beyond formal leadership roles. Recognizing the challenges EMS professionals can carry with them, Micah completed additional training and serves on the ATCEMS Peer Support Team. She also co-founded Austin FEMS, a fitness and wellness organization dedicated to supporting female first responders and promoting sustainable health and fitness within the first responder community.

Micah’s contributions have also been recognized beyond ATCEMS. She received the Outstanding Emergency Medical Technician Award from the 100 Club of Central Texas in recognition of her contributions to emergency medical services.

Throughout her career, Micah has demonstrated that leadership is about far more than rank. Whether caring for patients, serving alongside tactical teammates, educating new providers, supporting colleagues through difficult moments, or advocating for the health and success of female first responders, she leads through action. Her combination of clinical excellence, mentorship, advocacy, humility, and service exemplifies the spirit of a Star of Life. Austin-Travis County EMS is proud to recognize Micah as a Star of Life.

Travis Paden’s journey in emergency medical services began at age 14 through a junior fire program, where he received his first introduction to EMS. That early experience sparked an interest in prehospital medicine and ultimately led him to begin his EMS career in 2012.

After completing his training, Travis became a Licensed Paramedic and built his clinical experience across a broad range of emergency and critical care environments. Throughout his career, he has responded to a wide variety of 911 emergencies while also gaining experience with higher-acuity critical care transports. These experiences provided Travis with a diverse clinical foundation and a strong understanding of the demands placed on EMS professionals in both emergency and specialty-care settings.

In 2023, Travis joined Superior Mobile Health, where he quickly distinguished himself through his commitment to clinical education and professional development. He steadily progressed through several leadership positions, advancing from Field Training Officer to Lead Field Training Officer, Field Supervisor, and ultimately Clinical Coordinator.

As Clinical Coordinator, Travis oversees Superior Mobile Health’s Critical Care training program, helping develop and maintain the knowledge, skills, and clinical capabilities of providers throughout the organization. His approach to education emphasizes evidence-based practice, hands-on scenario training, and open, two-way dialogue that encourages providers to actively participate in the learning process.

Travis believes exceptional patient care begins with consistent education, demonstrated competency, sound clinical judgment, and a commitment to continual improvement. His goal is to develop providers who are not only technically proficient, but who also understand the responsibility that comes with delivering high-quality care to every patient.

From discovering EMS as a teenager to developing the clinicians who will help shape its future, Travis has demonstrated a sustained commitment to learning, leadership, and clinical excellence. Through his dedication to education and the advancement of patient care, Travis continues to help elevate the standard of care within his organization and the EMS profession.

Superior Mobile Health is proud to recognize Travis as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Southern Paramedic Service is honored to nominate Paramedic Miranda Welch as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life. During her first year of service with Southern Paramedic Service, Miranda has consistently demonstrated exceptional clinical judgment, compassion, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to the patients and communities she serves.

During what initially appeared to be a routine transport, Miranda cared for a dialysis patient she had transported on numerous occasions. Because she had taken the time to truly know her patient over multiple encounters, she immediately recognized subtle but significant changes in his mental status and behavior. While these changes may have been dismissed by someone unfamiliar with the patient’s baseline, Miranda trusted her assessment and knew something was seriously wrong.

Rather than simply returning the patient to the nursing facility as originally planned, Miranda advocated for the patient and made the critical decision to divert to the emergency department for immediate evaluation. Upon arrival, a Code Stroke was activated. The patient was diagnosed with an acute stroke and received timely intervention. Follow-up confirmed that, because of Miranda’s quick recognition and decisive actions, the patient received the treatment he needed and ultimately made a full recovery.

Miranda’s actions exemplify the very best of emergency medical services. She demonstrated that exceptional patient care extends beyond protocols and vital signs; it requires experience, compassion, critical thinking, and the courage to speak up when something does not seem right. Her commitment to knowing her patients and advocating for them directly changed the course of this patient’s life.

Miranda consistently embodies the mission of Southern Paramedic Service through professionalism, clinical excellence, and selfless service. Her dedication to her patients and the EMS profession makes her an outstanding representative of ambulance services nationwide.

Miranda is an outstanding EMT who will make an excellent Paramedic. She is also a trusted colleague and dedicated public servant whose character and accomplishments merit this distinguished recognition. Southern Paramedic Service is proud to recognize Miranda Welch as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Captain Stacy Kohn is being recognized as a Star of Life for her exceptional leadership, dedication, and lifelong commitment to emergency medical services.

Stacy’s EMS journey began as a student in the Friendswood High School HOSA EMT program. From there, she volunteered with Friendswood EMS before transitioning into a full-time career, steadily rising through the ranks to her current role as Captain and Shift Commander.

Throughout her career, Stacy has led with calm focus and strength, especially during large-scale emergencies. She has served as the lead officer during several major incidents, including Hurricane Harvey, Winter Storm Uri, and Hurricane Beryl. In each of these disasters, her steady leadership and sound decision-making ensured the safety of patients and team members alike.

In addition to her operational role, Stacy oversees all medical supply management and frequently assists with special projects and initiatives. She is also deeply committed to education, having developed and sustained a continuing education program that empowers EMS providers to deliver excellent patient care. As a mentor and role model, she inspires colleagues to grow both personally and professionally.

Stacy’s advocacy extends beyond Friendswood EMS to the broader Texas EMS community. She actively participates in outreach and public education, always representing her department with professionalism and pride.

Friendswood EMS is proud to recognize Captain Stacy Kohn as a Star of Life for her unwavering service, leadership, and commitment to excellence in emergency medical services.

Marc Flores is being honored for his exceptional clinical expertise and decisive action that saved the life of an elderly motor vehicle crash victim. While responding to a collision in rural Texas with Flight Nurse Missy Satterfield, Marc encountered a patient who appeared visibly distressed.

To an untrained eye, the symptoms might have seemed like simple shock from the accident. But Marc, drawing on his experience and keen clinical judgment, quickly recognized the signs of compromised breathing caused by chest trauma and multiple rib fractures. Just moments later, the patient went into cardiac arrest.

Without hesitation, Marc and Missy initiated advanced lifesaving interventions, successfully achieving return of spontaneous circulation and stabilizing the patient for transport. Thanks to their rapid assessment, calm execution, and advanced training, the patient not only survived but walked out of the hospital just two weeks later.

Air Evac Lifeteam is proud to recognize Flight Paramedic Marc Flores as a Star of Life!

Rick Pringle is being honored for his extraordinary, lifesaving response to a horrific and complex tractor-trailer accident that left a patient trapped beneath part of a 340,000-pound cargo load. The incident occurred when an 18-wheeler carrying the massive shipment overturned on a Texas state highway, pinning a passenger from another vehicle beneath the fallen freight.

As the acting supervisor on scene, Rick coordinated the response with Paramedic Samantha Sabol, EMT Talitha Tanous, Temple Fire Department, and Temple Police during an intense, hours-long extrication effort. The operation demanded precise coordination, advanced clinical judgment, and determination to free and stabilize the patient so they could be transported safely for advanced care.

Rick’s steady leadership and unwavering focus, combined with the skill and dedication of everyone involved, ensured the best possible outcome in an incredibly challenging situation. His calm presence under pressure exemplifies the very best of EMS.

American Medical Response is proud to recognize Rick Pringle as a Star of Life!

Samantha Sabol is being commended for her exceptional lifesaving actions during a serious and complex tractor-trailer accident that left a patient trapped beneath part of a 340,000-pound cargo load. The incident occurred when an 18-wheeler carrying the heavy shipment overturned on a Texas state highway, pinning a passenger from another vehicle under the fallen freight.

Working under the direction of Acting Supervisor Paramedic Rick Pringle, and alongside EMT Talitha Tanous, the Temple Fire Department, and Temple Police, Samantha played a critical role in the hours-long extrication effort. The operation demanded unwavering focus, advanced clinical expertise, and emotional resilience—skills Samantha delivered with extraordinary precision and care.

Thanks to her intervention and determination, the patient was successfully freed, stabilized, and safely transported for advanced medical treatment. Samantha’s courage, skill, and unshakable commitment to saving lives exemplify the very best of the EMS profession.

American Medical Response is proud to recognize Samantha Sabol as a Star of Life!

Missy Satterfield is being recognized for her swift and expert response during a critical emergency involving an elderly car crash victim. While responding to a rural Texas motor vehicle accident alongside Flight Paramedic Marc Flores, Missy immediately recognized that the patient’s distress went beyond the shock of the collision. Drawing on her clinical expertise, she identified signs of impaired breathing caused by chest trauma and multiple rib fractures.

Moments later, the patient went into cardiac arrest. Thanks to Missy and Marc’s rapid intervention and advanced lifesaving techniques, they were able to restore the patient’s heartbeat and stabilize them for transport. Their training, quick thinking, and unwavering focus on patient care made all the difference.

The patient not only survived but was discharged from the hospital just two weeks later—a remarkable recovery made possible by Missy’s dedication and skill in the field.

For this, any much more, Air Evac Lifeteam is proud to recognize Missy Satterfield as a Star of Life!

American Medical Response is proud to recognize Emergency Medical Technician Talitha Crowe as a Star of Life.

Talitha is being honored for her exceptional performance during the response to a harrowing tractor-trailer crash on a Texas highway. The incident involved an 18-wheeler carrying a 340,000-pound load that overturned, with a portion of the cargo crushing another vehicle and critically injuring its occupant.

Guided by on-site acting supervisor Paramedic Rick Pringle and working alongside Paramedic Samantha Sabol, Temple Fire Department, and Temple Police personnel, Talitha played a pivotal role in a complex, multi-hour rescue operation. The mission demanded sharp clinical judgment, steadfast concentration, and emotional strength—qualities Talitha demonstrated with precision and compassion.

Because of her advanced medical proficiency and quick thinking, the trapped patient was successfully extricated, stabilized, and safely transported for further care. Talitha’s calm under pressure and dedication to preserving life reflect the very best of the EMS profession.

Her bravery, skill, and compassion embody the values of American Medical Response, and it is with great pride that AMR celebrates Talitha Crowe as a Star of Life.

Adam Wagh’s career reflects a rare combination of courage, innovation, and relentless dedication to emergency medical services. He began his EMS journey with Acadian Ambulance Service in Austin before joining San Marcos Hays County EMS as a 911 Paramedic. His calm skill under pressure earned him recognition, including the Life Saving Award from the San Marcos Police Department after providing critical care to two officers during an active shooter incident. That moment reinforced a lesson that still guides him today: every decision in EMS—clinical or operational—has the power to change a life.

After years in the field, Adam broadened his expertise through a software development program, gaining the technical foundation to translate complex data into tools that improve patient outcomes and organizational efficiency. He later joined Superior Mobile Health as a Paramedic, quickly distinguishing himself as a Field Training Officer and rising to Lead FTO. In this role, he pioneered quarterly training programs that elevated clinical readiness across the organization.

Promoted to On-Duty Supervisor and now Communications Center Manager, Adam has driven innovations that transformed operations. He authored new policies, pioneered zone-based and bucket dispatching, and designed real-time analytics dashboards that allow dispatchers and executives to monitor call volume, facility demand, and system readiness. His leadership has fostered accountability, efficiency, and patient-centered decision-making in one of the busiest EMS communications centers in Texas.

Today, while pursuing a Master’s degree in Data Science, Adam continues to shape the future of EMS by blending clinical excellence, technical skill, and visionary leadership. Superior Mobile Health is proud to honor Adam Wagh as a 2025 Star of Life.

Jonathan “Jon” Stocker, Critical Care Paramedic at Superior Mobile Health, is honored as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life for exemplary patient care, professionalism, and leadership in education.

A seasoned Critical Care Paramedic, Mr. Stocker delivers high-acuity care with precision, confidence, and compassion. From routine IV/O₂/monitor transports to managing ventilated patients supported by multiple IV drips, he adapts seamlessly to complex, fast‑moving situations while maintaining an unwavering focus on safety, communication, and dignity for every patient.

Beyond clinical excellence, Mr. Stocker is a natural educator and mentor. He guides partners through complex interventions, supports ICU nurses during high‑acuity transfers, and reassures family members and bystanders with clear, calm explanations. His approachable teaching style builds trust, lifts team performance, and strengthens patient‑centered care across the continuum.

Colleagues look to Mr. Stocker for leadership under pressure. His steady presence and sound clinical judgment help teams navigate stressful scenarios and achieve positive outcomes. He leads by example—modeling professionalism, humility, and a commitment to doing what is best for patients and the community.

For his exceptional patient care, dedication to teaching and mentoring, and calm leadership in the most challenging circumstances, Jonathan “Jon” Stocker embodies the spirit of the Stars of Life program and the highest ideals of Emergency Medical Services.

Jennifer Aguilar is a Paramedic and healthcare professional whose career spans more than a decade in EMS and seventeen years in pharmacy operations. She began her EMS service in the fast-paced Las Vegas 911 system, where for eight years she answered high-acuity calls and supported some of the most challenging responses in modern EMS. During the Route 91 Harvest Festival mass casualty incident—America’s deadliest mass shooting—she maintained calm, precision, and focus under extraordinary pressure. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, she helped sustain emergency response operations while modeling resilience and steady leadership for her colleagues.

Since joining Superior Mobile Health EMS in January 2024, Aguilar has made an immediate impact. She earned Critical Care Transport certification and was quickly selected as a Field Training Officer, mentoring new clinicians with patience, clinical rigor, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Recognized for sound judgment and integrity, she was promoted to Operations Lead, where she oversees field supervisors and helps ensure safe, efficient, and clinically excellent care.

Aguilar brings the same discipline to her personal life that she demonstrates on duty. A two-time figure competition winner, she is also a devoted mother of four and proud grandmother of two. Her colleagues praise her calm presence, tireless work ethic, and uncompromising standards. More than a Paramedic, Jennifer Aguilar is a mentor, a leader, and an inspiration—embodying the spirit of the Star of Life.

Shane Terry, a nearly 20-year veteran with Air Evac Lifeteam, is an expert in emergency medical care, known for his ability to quickly assess and intervene in critical situations. His expertise has been particularly noted in two significant incidents: one involving a former AEL team member and the other, a child.

In the first instance, Shane was in an ER when a former team member experienced cardiac arrest. His quick thinking and skillful intervention, alongside ER staff, saved the individual’s life.

In another case, Shane responded to a call for a child in cardiac arrest. Upon arrival, he immediately recognized that the child’s airway tube was incorrectly placed. Shane reintubated the child and, recognizing the weather conditions were unsafe for flight, accompanied the ground unit to ensure the child received continuous care en route to the hospital.

Shane’s dedication to patient care and his ability to act swiftly in critical moments make him a standout in the field. His nearly two decades of service with Air Evac Lifeteam and his commitment to saving lives are why he is recognized as a 2024 Star of Life honoree.

With more than 15 years of dedicated service as an EMS first responder, Kevin Rochford is being honored for his life-saving actions in January 2024, when he responded to a cardiac arrest involving a well-known community leader. Kevin’s quick and decisive intervention, which included administering multiple medications and performing defibrillations, led to the patient achieving ROSC (Return of Spontaneous Circulation) after more than 30 minutes of effort. Thanks to Kevin’s expertise and persistence, the patient survived and has since returned to serving the community.

Known for his humility and commitment to lifelong learning, Kevin is actively pursuing courses to further his career in the medical field. His dedication to both his patients and his personal growth makes him a valued member of American Medical Response and a true asset to the Waco community.

George Lombardo is a dynamic and visionary leader with a remarkable record of driving growth and innovation in EMS. A Critical Care Paramedic with 17 years of clinical experience and three years in management, George is considered a rising star in the profession.

Currently serving as Operations Manager at Superior Mobile Health in San Antonio, Texas, George has a proven track record of leadership and innovation. After being promoted to Field Supervisor in 2021, George played a pivotal role in shaping the position to its current scope before advancing to Operations Manager in 2023.

During his tenure, the organization’s field staff has grown from 45 to over 120 members, and the fleet has expanded from 6 to 14 ambulances during peak hours. In 2023, the organization handled nearly 20,000 calls, reflecting tremendous growth.

George has led several significant initiatives, including mobile data management, recruitment and retention strategies, work/life balance scheduling, and the implementation of the EMS-FTEP (Field Training and Evaluation Program). In 2022, George graduated from Fitch & Associates’ prestigious Ambulance Service Manager Program, where his team project was selected for presentation at Pinnacle 2023.

Committed to teamwork and upholding strong values, George continues to lead with a focus on innovation, growth, and excellence in EMS.

Juvencio Estrada is being recognized for his lifesaving actions during a critical incident involving another company’s ground ambulance and an 18-wheeler collision. Juvencio, along with Flight Paramedic Johan Alvarado, was dispatched to the scene of the accident, where they quickly assessed that one of the patients in the ambulance was in urgent need of advanced care. The patient was experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, and had suffered right arm trauma with a tourniquet applied.

Recognizing the severity of the situation, Juvencio and Johan promptly removed the patient from the ambulance and transferred them to their aircraft for immediate transport to advanced medical care. During a fuel stop at Laredo International Airport, they discovered that the patient’s left anterior chest was unstable, among other pressing medical concerns. Acting swiftly, they performed a needle decompression and other complex medical procedures, which immediately improved the patient’s condition.

Their quick decision-making and skilled interventions were described as “lifesaving,” with the patient later expressing that they wouldn’t have survived without the care provided by Juvencio and Johan. Their actions exemplify the highest standards of emergency medical care.

Josh Frierson has dedicated 16 years of his life to serving the Texarkana community as a compassionate and ambitious EMS professional. His journey into emergency services began in 2007 after joining a local volunteer fire department, which led him to the fire academy and eventually to EMT school, where he fell in love with the medical side of helping others. Josh has been with LifeNet since November 2007, and his career has been marked by his dedication to patient care and his commitment to continuous learning. In 2021, he achieved a significant milestone by earning his Paramedic license after completing LifeNet’s accelerated Paramedic course.

In addition to his work in the field, Josh has recently stepped into a leadership role as an Operations Manager at LifeNet, a goal he has long aspired to. He is excited to contribute to the growth and betterment of the company while continuing to serve his community. Josh believes that EMS is a rewarding, though challenging, career and advises anyone entering the field to never stop learning, as the medical field is constantly evolving.

Being recognized as the Texas Star of Life for 2024 is a tremendous honor for Josh. Knowing that his coworkers nominated him for this award is a source of immense pride, as he strives every day to do what is best for his patients and to support his fellow team members. He is proud to be part of an amazing staff that consistently goes above and beyond for the community.

Outside of work, Josh enjoys spending time with his wife, Morgan, who many in the medical field know from her role at a community hospital. Married since December 2021, they have three children: Aiden, 17, Emori, 3, and Knox, 1. Family is a central part of Josh’s life, and he cherishes moments spent on the back porch with friends and family, watching the kids play in the yard.

Josh’s three defining qualities—compassion, trustworthiness, and ambition—shine through in every aspect of his work. He hopes to make a positive impact on his community, one patient at a time, and is grateful for the opportunity to do so through LifeNet.