Jonathan Llanas is a Critical Care Paramedic with 20 years of experience in emergency medical services. He earned his Paramedic certification from Northeast Wisconsin Technical College in Green Bay 13 years ago and joined Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Wisconsin in August 2025. Before joining Superior, Jonathan served with Integrity Care EMS in Iron Mountain, Michigan, and United Area Rescue Squad in Wabeno, Wisconsin.

Throughout his career, Jonathan has developed the clinical knowledge, composure, and judgment required to care for critically ill patients in challenging circumstances. Those qualities were especially evident during the transport of a post-surgical patient who experienced repeated cardiac and respiratory arrests.

Faced with an exceptionally complex and rapidly evolving emergency, Jonathan led resuscitation efforts while simultaneously guiding an EMT student through the student’s first encounter with a patient who was not breathing. Throughout the transport, Jonathan remained composed and focused, achieving multiple returns of spontaneous circulation and working to stabilize the patient despite repeated deterioration.

The call demonstrated more than Jonathan’s clinical abilities. Even amid an extraordinary resuscitation, he remained a leader and educator, supporting a developing EMS professional while maintaining his focus on the patient. His ability to provide direction under pressure exemplifies the experience and professionalism he has developed over two decades in EMS.

Outside of work, Jonathan has recently taken up painting, an activity that provides an opportunity for creativity and personal expression away from the demands of emergency medicine.

Through his clinical skill, composure, leadership, and dedication to both patients and fellow EMS professionals, Jonathan exemplifies the qualities celebrated by Stars of Life. Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service of Wisconsin is proud to recognize Critical Care Paramedic Jonathan Llanas as a Star of Life.

Since joining Bell Ambulance as a Cadet in the fall of 2022, Jose Sanabria has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to clinical excellence, professional growth, leadership, and mentorship. In just a few years, he has progressed from a new EMS professional to a trusted leader responsible for helping others develop their own skills and confidence.

Jose earned his Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification in January 2023 and quickly distinguished himself through his dedication and strong work ethic. By fall 2023, he had advanced to Crew Chief, followed by a promotion to Field Training Officer (FTO) in spring 2024. Most recently, Jose stepped into the leadership role of FTO Supervisor, further expanding his responsibility for developing and supporting Bell Ambulance team members.

Jose’s greatest impact can be seen in the people he mentors. Peers and trainees describe him as a phenomenal mentor, reliable partner, and encouraging role model. Those who train alongside Jose consistently finish their shifts feeling capable, respected, and energized about their future careers in EMS. His ability to bring out the best in others reflects a leadership style grounded not simply in teaching clinical and operational skills, but in building confidence and helping others recognize their own potential.

That commitment has also earned recognition from his colleagues. Jose was nominated by his peers for Bell Ambulance’s EMT of the Year honor, reflecting the respect he has earned from those who work beside him every day.

Outside of EMS, Jose is an avid sports fan who enjoys soccer, football, and golf. He loves traveling internationally and exploring new destinations, spending time on the golf course whenever possible, and relaxing with his friends, family, and girlfriend.

Through his rapid professional growth, dependable leadership, and genuine investment in the success of others, Jose represents the qualities that strengthen both Bell Ambulance and the EMS profession. Bell Ambulance is proud to recognize Jose Sanabria as a Star of Life.

Since joining Bell Ambulance in 2019, Jesse Villas Boas Calvo has built an outstanding EMS career defined by clinical excellence, continuous advancement, and a commitment to developing those around her. Progressing from EMT to Crew Chief, Paramedic, Critical Care Paramedic, and Field Training Officer (FTO), Jesse consistently demonstrates the high standards of care and leadership that distinguish exceptional EMS professionals.

As an FTO, Jesse is known for her patient and empowering approach to teaching. She establishes clear expectations while giving trainees the space and confidence to take the lead, stepping in with calm direction and support when needed. She also makes purposeful use of downtime, coaching trainees on protocols, documentation, and clinical decision-making to help build skills that extend well beyond the training period.

In the field, Jesse combines advanced clinical knowledge with strong scene management and Crew Resource Management. She is intentional about teaching trainees and colleagues how to delegate effectively, communicate clearly, and integrate BLS and ALS providers into a cohesive team. Through this approach, Jesse not only helps deliver excellent patient care but also develops more confident and capable EMS professionals.

Jesse’s clinical expertise, leadership, and commitment to her colleagues have earned the respect of her peers, who nominated her as Bell Ambulance’s Paramedic of the Year. The recognition reflects the impact she has made not only through the care she provides but also through the example she sets for those who work alongside her.

Outside of EMS, Jesse enjoys weightlifting, drawing, and spending time with her family.

Through her calm and empowering leadership, clinical excellence, and dedication to strengthening those around her, Jesse embodies the qualities of a Star of Life. Bell Ambulance is proud to recognize Jesse Villas Boas Calvo as a Star of Life.

Since joining Bell Ambulance in the fall of 2022, Jess Mayberry has distinguished herself through an exceptional commitment to clinical excellence, professional growth, and the development of those around her.

Jess advanced quickly within the organization, earning the role of Crew Chief in March 2023 and becoming a Field Training Officer (FTO) just four months later. While continuing to serve full time as an FTO, she took on the additional challenge of Paramedic school, ultimately earning her Paramedic license in the spring of 2026. Her progression reflects the determination, discipline, and work ethic she brings to every aspect of her EMS career.

In 2025, Jess’s peers nominated her for recognition as Bell Ambulance’s EMT of the Year. As an FTO, she earned particular praise for her individualized approach to training, transparent communication, and ability to strike the right balance between allowing trainees the autonomy to grow and providing support when they need it. Her approach helps new providers develop not only their clinical abilities but also the confidence necessary to succeed in EMS.

In high-stress situations, Jess is known for her commanding presence, composure, adaptability, and strong patient advocacy. She treats every patient with dignity while remaining equally attentive to the well-being of her crew. Whether caring for a patient or developing a new provider, Jess leads through example and demonstrates a genuine commitment to helping others succeed.

Away from work, Jess enjoys reading and cooking. Her colleagues also benefit from her time in the kitchen, as she has been known to bring homemade treats to the station to share.

Jess’s work ethic, continued pursuit of excellence, and commitment to advocating for both her patients and her peers exemplify the very best of EMS. Bell Ambulance is proud to recognize Jess Mayberry as a Star of Life.

Benjamin Marsh entered emergency medical services with a simple goal: to build a career in which he could make a meaningful and tangible difference in people’s lives. Before he had even completed his EMT training, he found himself unexpectedly called upon to do exactly that.

On March 25, 2026, Benjamin was participating in EMT training at Fox Valley Technical College when his instructor, Karl Arps, suffered a sudden cardiac arrest. Just two weeks earlier, Karl had administered Benjamin’s formal CPR skills test. Now, the instructor had unexpectedly become the patient.

Although Benjamin was still an EMT student and had not yet received his license, he was CPR certified and immediately put his training into action. Working alongside fellow students and instructors, Benjamin helped remove Karl from the training ambulance using a longboard, assisted with bag-valve-mask ventilation, and supported the team as they performed lifesaving interventions. After receiving multiple defibrillator shocks, Karl regained a pulse and ultimately made a remarkable recovery.

For Benjamin, the experience became powerful confirmation that EMS was where he belonged. Faced with a sudden, high-pressure emergency, he discovered that he could remain composed, rely on his training, work as part of a team, and contribute meaningfully when another person’s life was at stake.

Benjamin’s actions were subsequently recognized by the Wisconsin State Legislature with a State of Wisconsin Citation of Commendation honoring his “extraordinary courage, composure, and skill” during the life-threatening emergency.

Benjamin began his EMS career in May 2026 and joined MMT in July. Today, his colleagues know him as dependable, empathetic, calm under pressure, and committed to being a strong teammate. He intends to continue his EMS education with the goal of becoming a Paramedic and, eventually, a Critical Care Paramedic.

Benjamin entered EMS because he wanted to serve others. His actions while still a student demonstrated that he already possessed many of the qualities at the heart of the profession: composure, compassion, teamwork, and a willingness to step forward when someone needs help most. The American Ambulance Association is proud to recognize Benjamin Marsh as a Star of Life.

Driven by a desire to become a more well-rounded and capable wildland firefighter, Logan Lehrer pursued Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification to strengthen their ability to respond when others need help most.

Through their experience in wildland fire, Logan recognized the critical importance of medical knowledge and emergency response skills, particularly in remote environments where advanced medical care may be miles away. Becoming an EMT was a natural extension of their commitment to preparedness and their desire to protect and assist others in challenging and unpredictable conditions.

That commitment was put to the test while Logan was still completing EMT training. During class, one of their instructors suffered a sudden out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Faced with a real medical emergency involving someone who had been teaching them how to respond to exactly such situations, Logan remained composed and immediately put their training into action. They assisted in the emergency response, helping ensure their instructor received the urgent care needed to survive.

The experience provided Logan with a powerful firsthand lesson in how quickly an ordinary moment can become a life-threatening emergency. It demonstrated the importance of recognizing a crisis, remaining calm under pressure, and taking decisive action. Most importantly, it reinforced Logan’s commitment to completing their EMT certification and developing the skills necessary to help others when every second matters.

By combining their dedication to wildland firefighting with a commitment to emergency medical care, Logan exemplifies courage, preparedness, compassion, and a willingness to step forward when someone is in need. Their actions during a fellow responder’s most critical moment embody the spirit of a Star of Life.

Jacob James’ journey toward emergency medical services is rooted in a longstanding commitment to serving others. Before entering EMS, Jacob joined the U.S. Army in 2019 and served for seven years as an infantryman stationed in Savannah, Georgia. During his military service, he met his wife, Kelli, who is originally from Wisconsin.

After completing his military service, Jacob and Kelli made Wisconsin their home. With the goal of pursuing a career in firefighting with the Oshkosh Fire Department, Jacob enrolled in EMT training at Fox Valley Technical College, taking the next step in a career dedicated to helping others during their most critical moments.

Only months into his EMT education, Jacob encountered an emergency no classroom exercise could fully prepare him for.

On March 25, Jacob was working in another room during a training scenario when he heard his head instructor, Traci Blondeau, urgently call for an AED. An instructor who had been portraying a patient during the exercise had experienced an actual cardiac emergency.

Jacob immediately recognized that the situation had shifted from simulation to reality. He retrieved the AED and joined his fellow students and instructors in the resuscitation effort. Working together, the group performed CPR and used the AED as they worked to save their instructor’s life. Their efforts were successful.

Although still a student, Jacob demonstrated qualities essential to emergency medical care: composure, initiative, teamwork, and a willingness to act when someone needed help. His military experience had taught him to remain focused under pressure, trust his training, and work as part of a team. When confronted with a genuine medical emergency, he put those lessons into action.

The experience offered Jacob an unforgettable introduction to the responsibility that accompanies a career in EMS. It also reinforced the path he had chosen—from serving his country as an Army infantryman to preparing for a new career serving his community as an EMT and aspiring firefighter.

Jacob’s actions demonstrate that a commitment to service is more than a career choice; it is the willingness to step forward when another person needs help. Through his courage, composure, teamwork, and dedication to serving others, Jacob represents the promise of the next generation of emergency responders.

We are proud to recognize Jacob James as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

For more than 30 years, Karla Eppler has dedicated her career to emergency medical services as a Paramedic, Educator, and Administrator. While her decades of service alone reflect an extraordinary commitment to EMS, Karla’s recent work to recognize today’s first responders and prepare tomorrow’s Paramedics demonstrates the lasting impact of her leadership.

Karla created the Emplify Health EMS Challenge Coin program as a way to recognize those who help others in their time of need. What began as an effort to honor the staff of Tri-State Ambulance and Emplify Health Ambulance has grown into recognition of first responders throughout the broader EMS and public safety community. Karla frequently spends her evenings traveling throughout western Wisconsin to EMS, fire, and law enforcement agencies to personally recognize the people who serve their communities every day.

In professions where extraordinary service can too often go unrecognized, Karla makes it her mission to ensure first responders understand that their work matters. Through the challenge coin program, she celebrates not only exceptional actions, but also the everyday commitment of those who consistently answer the call and make a difference in the lives of others.

At the same time, Karla has been working tirelessly to help secure the future of EMS by developing a Paramedic education program. She has devoted countless hours to learning the accreditation process, assembling a talented faculty, and guiding the team through the development of the program and its training facility. Her work will help prepare future generations of Paramedics to answer the call for help and create a legacy that will extend far beyond her own career.

Whether recognizing those who serve today or developing those who will serve tomorrow, Karla has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to strengthening the EMS profession and the people within it.

Outside of work, Karla enjoys spending time with family and friends. An avid cyclist and triathlete, she also encourages others to discover activities they enjoy and make an active lifestyle part of their lives.

Through more than three decades of service, leadership, education, and advocacy for her fellow first responders, Karla has made an enduring impact on EMS and the communities it serves. Tri-State Ambulance and Emplify Health Ambulance are proud to recognize Karla Eppler as a 2026 Star of Life.

At just 21 years old, Sofie Jo DeValk already embodies the courage, compassion, and commitment at the heart of emergency medical services. Her journey into EMS began with an admiration for emergency medical responders and quickly developed into a passion for helping others. Remarkably, Sofie had the opportunity to put that commitment into action before she had even completed her EMT training.

Sofie has worked in healthcare since she was 15. Drawn to fast-paced environments and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, she initially enrolled in EMT school as a way to supplement her income while pursuing a career as a surgical technologist. Along the way, however, she discovered something unexpected: EMS was where she belonged.

That realization became profoundly personal during an EMT training scenario. Sofie and her classmates were participating in an exercise in which their instructor was portraying the patient when, without warning, he suffered an actual out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

Sofie and her classmates immediately recognized that the scenario had become a real emergency. They shifted from practicing lifesaving skills to using them, working together to provide the critical care their instructor needed. Their training took over as they recognized the cardiac arrest, responded decisively, and became essential links in the chain of survival.

Their actions helped save their instructor’s life.

For Sofie, the experience was more than an extraordinary moment during EMT school. It confirmed that she had chosen the right profession and demonstrated, in the most profound way possible, that the skills she was learning could truly mean the difference between life and death.

Sofie credits her instructors, clinical experiences, and classmates with helping ignite her passion for EMS. They introduced her to a profession that continually challenges its members to learn, pursue further education, support one another, and grow. Her classmates also became an important source of encouragement and accountability as she worked to become the best EMT she could be.

What began as a plan to earn an EMT-B certification while pursuing another career has become a commitment to emergency medical services. Sofie now intends to continue her education and build a career centered on helping people during some of the most critical moments of their lives.

Sofie did not simply learn about the chain of survival in a classroom; she became part of it. Her ability to recognize a genuine emergency, remain focused under extraordinary circumstances, trust her training, and work alongside her classmates to save a life reflects the courage and readiness at the heart of EMS. Her story is a powerful reminder that EMS training prepares providers not only for the emergencies they expect, but also for the moments they never see coming. Congratulations Sofie, a 2026 American Ambulance Association Star of Life!

Traci Blondeau has dedicated her career to serving others through emergency medical services, education, and leadership. She currently serves as Service Director for Hortonville EMS and as an EMS Adjunct Instructor at Fox Valley Technical College, where her influence extends from the patients and communities she serves to the future EMS professionals she helps develop.

Traci’s EMS journey began in 2010, when she became an Emergency Medical Responder after witnessing a serious youth BMX accident and realizing how little many people knew about what to do while waiting for an ambulance. That experience inspired her to pursue emergency medical services, eventually becoming a Paramedic and further expanding her skills through Tactical EMS training.

Education soon became another passion. Encouraged by her own EMS instructors, Traci began working as an aide at Fox Valley Technical College in 2013 and discovered how rewarding it was to help prepare others for careers in EMS. Today, she teaches Emergency Medical Responder and EMT courses, as well as first aid and CPR for the Criminal Justice Law Enforcement and Jailer Academies.

Traci is the kind of leader and educator who makes people feel supported, valued, and capable of more than they may realize. Her impact reaches far beyond the classroom as former students carry the knowledge, confidence, and commitment she helped instill into their own EMS careers.

The significance of that work became especially clear during a recent EMT class. An adjunct instructor who was participating as a simulated chest pain patient suddenly suffered an actual cardiac arrest. Traci immediately recognized the emergency and led her students as they provided high-quality CPR and early defibrillation. Their rapid response saved the instructor’s life, and just a few months later, he was able to return to teaching EMS classes.

The incident demonstrated not only Traci’s ability to remain calm and lead during a life-threatening emergency, but also the real-world impact of her dedication to education. When an unexpected crisis unfolded in her classroom, the skills she had worked so hard to teach were immediately put into action.

Through her dedication to patient care, EMS education, leadership, and the development of future professionals, Traci has created an impact that extends across generations of providers and throughout her community. Hortonville EMS is proud to recognize Traci Blondeau as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Every EMS professional answers the call for help, but some consistently go above and beyond what is expected. For Wayne Atchley, an EMT with Tri-State Ambulance, going above and beyond for his patients, colleagues, service, and community is simply how he approaches each day.

What was originally intended to be a retirement job became a meaningful second career in service to others. Over the years, Wayne has become a dedicated and dependable member of Tri-State Ambulance, generously giving his time and experience to both new and seasoned EMS professionals.

As a Field Training Officer (FTO), Wayne takes particular pride in helping new EMTs begin their careers. He invests significant time in each new team member, ensuring they receive the guidance, experience, and encouragement they need to succeed. A natural teacher, Wayne understands that being an FTO is about more than completing an orientation process—it is an opportunity to build confidence, share knowledge, and help shape the next generation of EMS professionals.

Wayne’s compassion, empathy, and infectious smile are equally important to his impact. Whether supporting a colleague, caring for a patient, or working alongside other responders at an emergency scene, his calm and engaging personality puts those around him at ease.

His commitment to service also extends into the rural communities Tri-State Ambulance serves. Wayne regularly helps staff special events, but for him, these assignments are about more than covering a race or working a first aid station. He uses every opportunity to teach, encourage, and help those around him become better providers.

Wayne is also a dedicated husband and father who has shared his passion for EMS with his family. His example has had a particularly meaningful influence on his son, Michael, who followed in his father’s footsteps and became a Paramedic. It is a fitting reflection of Wayne’s legacy: His greatest impact can be seen not only in the patients he has cared for, but also in the people he has inspired to serve others.

Through his compassion, mentorship, dependability, and commitment to his community, Wayne exemplifies the very best of emergency medical services. Tri-State Ambulance is proud to recognize him as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

For 30 years, Darren Peterson, Paramedic, has dedicated his career to providing compassionate, high-quality emergency medical care. A respected member of Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service’s Duluth operation, Darren is known for his calm presence, clinical expertise, positive attitude, and commitment to both his patients and the EMS profession.

Darren’s interest in healthcare began in grade school, when he aspired to become a doctor. In high school, he participated in Opportunities in Emergency Care, a program through which he earned CPR and First Aid certification. He later completed a first responder course, earned his EMT certification while still in high school, and began working in EMS shortly after graduation. Darren quickly discovered that emergency medical services was his calling and went on to complete Paramedic school.

After moving to the Duluth area, Darren continued building a career centered on patient care and service. Over the past three decades, he has earned the respect of colleagues and community partners through the compassion and empathy he demonstrates every day. Coworkers describe Darren as a skilled clinician who remains calm and in control regardless of the situation, while his positive attitude and playful sense of humor contribute to a supportive and enjoyable team environment.

Darren has also become a strong advocate for the EMS profession. In a meaningful full-circle connection to the beginning of his own career, he now returns to his high school to volunteer with the same program that first introduced him to emergency care. Through his involvement, Darren shares his experience with young people and has helped inspire participants to consider careers in EMS.

“Darren has given 30 years of his life providing high-quality care to his patients,” one colleague shared. “He is always calm and in control in any situation. He is one of the best medics I have had the pleasure of working with.”

Outside of EMS, Darren enjoys traveling and spending time with his wife and two children.

Darren’s three decades of service, commitment to his patients, and dedication to inspiring the next generation of EMS professionals exemplify the very best of emergency medical services. Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service is proud to recognize Darren Peterson as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance is proud to recognize Paramedic Brian Heisz as a Star of Life.

Born and raised in Fennimore, Wisconsin, Brian continues to live there with his wife, Jenifer, and their youngest daughter. Together they enjoy a close-knit family that also includes three adult children and one grandson. Outside of EMS, Brian and Jenifer own and operate a quilt shop in Fennimore.

Brian’s path to EMS began in 2013, when he read a local newspaper article calling for volunteer ambulance members. Inspired to serve, he joined the Fennimore Area Rescue Squad and quickly discovered his calling. He earned his Advanced EMT certification in 2022, followed by his Paramedic certification in 2024 through Gundersen’s Paramedic Trainee Program.

Today, Brian serves full-time as a Paramedic with Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance while also leading as Acting Service Director for Fennimore Area Rescue Squad. He has worked tirelessly with the medical director to implement flex staffing, ensuring a higher level of care for the residents of his community. His dedication to patient care and operational improvement exemplifies his commitment to EMS.

Brian’s service is also a family affair. His wife, Jenifer, is an Emergency Medical Responder, and their son, Nic, is a full-time Paramedic with Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance who also volunteers in Fennimore. Around their dinner table, the running joke is that EMS is the family business.

Through his leadership, compassion, and unwavering dedication to patients and colleagues, Brian has made a lasting impact on both Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance and the Fennimore community.

Dr. Jason Staszko has dedicated his career to service, beginning as a physician in the United States Navy from 2005 to 2008, including a deployment to Iraq as a Battalion Surgeon. Since 2013, he has provided medical direction for several EMS agencies across Wisconsin, bringing expertise, compassion, and steady leadership to the field. In July 2024, he joined Bell Ambulance as Medical Director. Since then, he has already made a significant impact by leading a collaborative team in revising the company’s patient care protocols to reflect the highest standards of modern prehospital medicine.

Dr. Staszko is not only a respected emergency physician, but also a hands-on leader who is regularly seen around Bell’s stations and riding along with crews. Known for being approachable and deeply invested in both learning and teaching, he builds strong connections with EMS professionals while ensuring they have the support and training they need to provide excellent care.

Bell Ambulance is proud to honor Dr. Jason Staszko as a 2025 Star of Life.

Since joining Bell Ambulance in 2017 as an Emergency Medical Technician, Sergey Dobrinin has impressed colleagues and patients alike with his energy, professionalism, and dedication. His calm bedside manner, paired with a no-nonsense approach, has consistently put both patients and partners at ease.

Recognized early for his skill and leadership, Sergey quickly advanced to the role of Training Officer, where he has mentored countless EMTs and Paramedics. In 2020, he completed his Paramedic education, and in March 2023, he achieved his Critical Care Paramedic certification, enabling him to respond to the most complex and high-acuity calls. From routine 911 responses to advanced interfacility transports, Sergey is trusted to deliver exceptional care in any circumstance.

Though he often flies under the radar, Sergey exemplifies Bell Ambulance’s highest mission: to be there for people in their time of greatest need. His quiet leadership, clinical excellence, and unwavering commitment to his patients and coworkers make him an outstanding recipient of the American Ambulance Association’s Star of Life honor.

Rachelle Hallett serves as a Critical Care Paramedic at Superior Air-Ground Ambulance of Wisconsin, where she is recognized for her passion for patient care and her commitment to mentoring the next generation of EMS professionals.

Rachelle began her EMS journey in 2017 while still in high school, completing her Emergency Medical Responder training at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College so she could volunteer with her local EMS agency in Pulaski, Wisconsin. Captivated by the profession, she shifted from nursing school aspirations to pursue a career in EMS. She went on to earn her Emergency Medical Technician certification, began working professionally as an EMT at 18, and completed her Paramedic license in 2019. In 2021, she obtained her Critical Care Transport Paramedic endorsement through the University of Wisconsin Health Emergency Education Center in Madison.

That same year, Rachelle joined Superior, where her dedication to providing exceptional care quickly became evident. In 2022, she was promoted to Field Training Officer, a natural progression given her drive to instill professionalism and high-quality care in newly hired EMTs and Paramedics. Her colleagues describe her as a welcoming resource and trustworthy mentor who embodies Superior’s high standards of excellence.

Outside of her career, Rachelle enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time with family. In July 2025, she and her husband, Seth, eloped during a memorable hiking trip in Glacier National Park. Looking ahead, Rachelle aspires to serve as a Critical Care Registered Nurse in Superior’s flight program while also pursuing a career in pediatric oncology.

Superior Air-Ground Ambulance is proud to recognize Rachelle Hallett as a 2025 Star of Life for her dedication, leadership, and unwavering passion for EMS.

Tom Felter Jr. serves as a Paramedic and Station Manager at Superior Air-Ground Ambulance of Indiana, where he oversees a team of more than 50 EMTs and Paramedics while continuing to serve patients in the field when needed. With 42 years of experience in emergency services, Tom brings unmatched knowledge, leadership, and compassion to his work.

His career began with service as a volunteer firefighter, industrial firefighter, 911 dispatcher, and police officer before he found his true calling in Emergency Medical Services. Tom worked as an EMT for 13 years before becoming a Paramedic, a role he has held for 25 years, responding to countless 911 emergencies at the Advanced Life Support level.

In 2015, Tom created The Emily Talk, a groundbreaking program designed to help first responders safely and respectfully interact with individuals with Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, and other disabilities. Named in honor of his daughter Emily, who was born with Down syndrome, the program has since been shared with audiences nationwide. Over time, it has expanded beyond EMS to include hospital staff, teachers, and students, fostering greater understanding and inclusion.

Tom is also deeply committed to his community. He plays a leadership role in 500 Turkeys, a charitable initiative that provides complete Thanksgiving dinners to families in need.

Married to his wife Tina for 39 years, Tom is the proud father of two daughters, Sarah and Emily, and grandfather to four grandchildren. His decades of service, advocacy, and devotion to his family and community make him a true Star of Life.

Superior Air-Ground Ambulance is honored to recognize Tom Felter Jr. as a 2025 Star of Life.

Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance is proud to recognize Dave Martens for his exceptional dedication and meaningful impact on the Tri-State Ambulance, Gundersen Ambulance, and MedCom teams over many years. In his quality and education role, Dave’s behind-the-scenes work has been instrumental in fostering a supportive and collaborative environment for dispatchers and EMS staff alike.

Much more than a quality specialist, Dave is a trusted mentor and coach who genuinely cares about the success and well-being of every member of the medical communications team. His approachable nature and willingness to listen create a positive atmosphere where staff feel valued and empowered. Dave consistently offers encouragement and guidance, helping team members build confidence and excel in their roles.

Known as the go-to person for any dispatch, LOGIS, or mapping question, Dave patiently takes the time to ensure everyone understands the information and feels supported. His dedication goes beyond technical expertise—he builds strong personal connections that foster teamwork and trust.

Despite managing a significant workload, Dave always maintains an upbeat and positive attitude, inspiring those around him. He serves as a vital link between Gundersen Ambulance, Tri-State Ambulance, and MedCom, providing calm and steady leadership through coaching, troubleshooting, and problem-solving.

Dave’s unwavering commitment to excellence and his genuine care for his colleagues have strengthened the organization and enhanced the quality of care provided to patients. His contributions exemplify the values of the EMS profession, making him a truly deserving 2025 American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Cynthia Torkelson is a dedicated Paramedic with Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance, deeply committed to the well-being of her patients. She always strives to provide the best care and continuously seeks opportunities to grow in her EMS career. Cynthia’s journey in healthcare began with her service as an EMR for the Monona Volunteer Ambulance in 2015, where she served for eight years before advancing to EMT and later earning her Paramedic certification in 2020.

Originally from Elkader, IA, Cynthia graduated from Central High School and then earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology Ecological and Systematics, with minors in German and Natural History and Interpretation, from the University of Northern Iowa. In 2022, Cynthia and her husband, Nick, both joined Gundersen Health System Ambulance in Prairie du Chien, where they have since become an integral part of the EMS community.

Cynthia’s compassionate approach and dedication to her patients have earned her respect among her peers. She is excited to continue her career in healthcare, constantly seeking new experiences and challenges to enhance her skills. Cynthia and Nick reside in Monona, IA, with their two sons, Andrew and Bennet. She is grateful for the opportunity to serve her community and for the recognition of her efforts.

For nearly 15 years, Sam Sye has been the backbone of Tri-State Ambulance’s fleet and facilities management. His vast expertise in ambulance maintenance and repair has ensured a reliable and efficient fleet of 30 ambulances and support vehicles. Remarkably, until this year, Sam single-handedly maintained the entire fleet, managing everything from preventive maintenance to complete engine overhauls and even bodywork, particularly dealing with frequent deer strikes.

Beyond his work with the fleet, Sam oversees the maintenance of Tri-State Ambulance’s eight facilities. His dedication extends further, as Sam is also a licensed EMT and is always willing to step in and run on an ambulance when the demand for services is high.

Sam’s peers describe him as a dedicated, dependable, and indispensable member of the team. Known for his exceptional work ethic and commitment to patient care, Sam is “virtually never unreachable.” He consistently goes above and beyond, ensuring the fleet is always ready, even on his days off. As one colleague puts it, “Without Sam’s hard work and dedication, we would not be able to drive down the road.”

Sam’s commitment to the safety of the community, his colleagues, and his patients makes him a standout in the field of EMS, and Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance is proud to honor him as a 2024 Star of Life.