News
April 21, 2016Mohawk Ambulance Service Paramedics Honored with Stars of Life
Two Mohawk Ambulance Service paramedics were honored by the American Ambulance Association (AAA) this week, each receiving a Stars of Life medal, the highest award that an emergency medical service worker can receive. Brandon Hermance and David Spangler were among the 103 EMS workers who received the recognition at the Association’s annual event held in Washington, D.C.
AAA represents hundreds of ambulance services across the United States that provide emergency and non-emergency care and medical transportation to more than 75 percent of the U.S. population. The Association’s annual Stars of Life event, now in its 17th year, publicly recognizes and celebrates the achievements of its members. Hermance and Spangler were greeted by Congressman Paul Tonko (NY-20) during their visit to our nation’s capital.
“Capital Region first responders routinely put themselves in harm’s way to save lives and property in our communities,” said Rep. Tonko. “The Stars of Life Program recognizes the most dedicated ambulance service professionals, and that cannot be better exemplified by the tireless responders at Mohawk Ambulance Service. I look forward to continuing my work with them and similar organizations in the Capital Region to ensure they continue to receive the support they need from the federal government to keep our communities safe.”
Hermance began working at Mohawk Ambulance Service in 2011 as a paramedic, became a supervisor a year later and now serves as a paramedic and station leader. He has received two Distinguished Service Awards in his five years with the team. Hermance received his certificate in paramedicine from SUNY Cobleskill and serves as a volunteer firefighter.
Spangler, a Guilderland native, has been with Mohawk Ambulance Service since 2012. First hired as an EMT, he became a paramedic in 2015 and received one of Mohawk Ambulance’s Distinguished Service Awards in December 2015. Spangler graduated cum laude from SUNY at Buffalo and received his certificate in paramedicine from Hudson Valley Community College.
“David and Brandon, like many other Mohawk Ambulance Service professionals, exemplify our continued commitment to care and service,” said James P. McPartlon III, president of Mohawk Ambulance Service. “We are extremely proud of both of them and congratulate them on this special recognition and achievement.”
Spangler and Hermance join eleven Mohawk Ambulance servicemen and women who are Stars of Life recipients. Other past award winners included first responders to the September 11th attacks, Hurricanes Katrina and Sandy, and other national disasters.
