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1994
2000
Boston
Emergency Medical Services
Relief Association
Twentieth Annual Awards
October 30, 2012
2001
1999
TWENTIETH ANNUAL AWARDS BANQUET
October 30, 2012
Dear Friends, Family, Colleagues and Supporters,
Welcome to the City of Boston Emergency Medical Services twentieth
annual awards ceremony. Tonight we honor men and women, EMTs,
Paramedics, brothers and sisters in public safety, and even some ordinary citizens – all of whom, when the need arose, performed extraordinary actions. We would like to offer our warm congratulations and sincere appreciation to all of this year’s award recipients.
James Salvia, President
Boston EMS is a family of brave and strong men and women, all of whom
deserve recognition for jobs well done, acts of bravery, and lifesaving
events that happen truly on a daily basis. It would be impossible to recount every story that has touched a heart or saved a life over the past
year. So tonight, while we honor these awards recipients, we remind
ourselves to keep in our thoughts and prayers our entire Boston EMS
family, many of whom cannot be here tonight, as they are responding
right now to calls for help throughout the city as we enjoy this special
evening.
Ann Horner, Vice-President
On behalf of the Boston EMS Relief Association Board of Directors,
thank you for your presence here tonight – it is a show of appreciation
and support for all of our personnel. As you hear the stories of what these award recipients have experienced, we urge you to think about your
loved ones in EMS. Think about what your mom does, what your dad
sees, or what your son or daughter offers to the world each day. Tonight
we are especially grateful for the selfless dedication and sacrifices of all
of our members, and also that of their families, who willingly share their
loved ones that they may help others. Tonight, we honor our finest EMTs
and Paramedics, and we are thankful for the opportunity to reflect on our
work, and to share this evening with all of you.
With best wishes and sincere thanks for your continued support,
Respectfully yours,
Kimberly Horne, Secretary
The BEMSRA Board of Directors
Kerry Joyce, Treasurer
“To provide for the welfare of the active and retired uniformed members
of the Boston Emergency Medical Services, and their families”
1 BOSTON EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES RELIEF ASSOCIATION
Boston EMS
2011 Awards Ceremony
Photos by Melvin Guante-Joseph
2 Boston EMS
2011 Award Recipients
Medal of Valor
EMTs Joseph Anderson &
Richard Chiaravalloti
Lifesaving Medal
Lt. William Lessard, EMTs Matthew
Bertrand & Christopher Mancuso
Pozen EMT of the Year
EMT Roger Furtado
Pozen Paramedic of the Year
Paramedic Steven McHugh
Chief of Department’s Award
EMT Denny Chan
Lawlor Award for Collaborative Practice
Lt. Brian Pomodoro &
BPD Lt. Phillip Terenzi
Department Citation
Sotiraq Trifoni & Farley Hipsman
Fleet Services
40 Years of Service
Deputy Supt. Claire Madigan-McNeil
3 Pike Community Service Award
Supt. Dianne Cavaleri
Telecommunicator of the Year
EMT/EMCO Robert Barnes
Lashman Humanitarian Award
Lt. Paul O’Brien
Department Citation
Joseph Walsh & Wayne Sanden
Materials Management
Photos by Stephen Beyer
BOSTON EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES RELIEF ASSOCIATION
4 TWENTIETH ANNUAL AWARDS BANQUET
James Hooley
Chief of Department
Boston EMS
Barbara Ferrer, Ph.D., MPH, M.Ed
Executive Director
Boston Public Health Commission
Sophia Dyer, MD, FACEP
Medical Director
Boston EMS
Boston EMS Mission Statement:
Boston EMS, the provider of emergency medical services for the City of Boston, is committed to compassionately delivering
excellent pre-hospital care and to protecting the safety and health of the public.
Boston EMS
2012 Awards
MEDAL OF HONOR
Awarded to any member of the Service for conspicuous bravery. This individual risked his/her life by knowingly
putting him/herself in harm’s way to aid another person. This award is based on extraordinary merit.
Edmund Burke
On the evening of August 23, 2011, EMT Edmund Burke was listening to his department radio while on his
way to work in A-14. He heard a call for a fire on Wadsworth Street in Brighton. Being very near the address
given, though not yet on-duty, Ed radioed the dispatcher to report that he was arriving at the scene. When he
got out of his car, he was told someone was unconscious inside. EMT Burke entered the house, which had
an actively burning third floor, and found an unconscious 10 year-old boy on the second floor. While still inside the burning building, he radioed dispatch with an update of the patient’s condition so Paramedics would
be dispatched. A-9 was just arriving as Ed exited the home, carrying the boy. P-16 arrived shortly after to
intubate the patient and transport him to MGH where hyperbaric oxygen therapy is available.
Putting another’s life before his own, Ed rescued this young boy and demonstrated a selfless act of heroism.
For this we award him the Medal of Honor.
Boston EMS
2012 Awards
MEDAL OF VALOR
Awarded to any member of the service who distinguishes himself or herself by extraordinary heroism. The act or
acts must have been so notable to set the individual apart from his or her comrades.
Edmund Hassan
While working as Shift Commander on the morning of February 4,
2012, Deputy Superintendent and Paramedic Edmund Hassan responded to a call dispatched for a person stabbed with the assailant
still on scene. Because Deputy Hassan was working alone and no
one else had arrived at the address, he stopped nearby to await word
that police had secured the scene, making it safe for him to continue
on to the patient. While parked a short distance away, Ed was approached by a woman who identified herself as the assailant. She
stated that she had stabbed her boyfriend and he was now unconscious. Deputy Hassan went with her to the patient’s side and discovered the man to be in cardiac arrest from a single stab wound to
the chest. Still alone with the perpetrator, Ed began treating the patient and administering CPR. Additional units arrived and the young
man was transported to the hospital. The patient underwent emergency surgery after which he made a complete recovery.
If not for Deputy Superintendent Hassan’s medical intervention, this
patient would not have survived such grievous injury.
For this he is presented with the Medal of Valor.
LIFESAVING MEDAL
Awarded to members of the Service who are directly responsible for saving a human life through the professional
application of life support in an unusual situation and under extreme or adverse conditions.
Lynn Marshall & Michael MacNeil
On February 4, 2012 A-4 with Lynn Marshall
and Michael MacNeil arrived at a call to find
Deputy Hassan alone on scene with both a
stabbing victim and the assailant. They assisted with patient care, extrication, and
transport. With their contributions, this traumatic arrest patient survived his injury.
For their role in this patient’s survival, they are
presented with the Lifesaving Medal.
Lynn Marshall
11 Michael MacNeil
Boston EMS
2012 Awards
Dr. Michael Pozen
EMT OF THE YEAR
Awarded to one Department EMT who distinguishes him/herself through the exemplary practice of emergency care,
contributions to the advancement of EMS, and demonstrations of commitment. Such attributes carry the legacy of
Dr. Michael Pozen whose surviving family sponsors the award named for him.
Susan Rook
EMT Susan Rook delivers excellent patient care on every call. She is an outstanding clinician who treats
every patient with a high degree of professionalism. Sue possesses exceptional interpersonal skills, which
she uses to advocate for the care and well-being of her patients. She is not only known for the rapport she
establishes with her patients, but also for the friendly relationships she has with colleagues. Sue regularly
exhibits the qualities that make her a genuine role model for her peers.
For this we present her with the Dr. Michael Pozen EMT of the Year Award.
EMT Oath
I do solemnly swear;
Than I will support the Constitution of the United
States; The Constitution and Laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and the City of Boston;
That I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same;
I will serve my patients with integrity and compassion,
and I will afford respect equally to all.
I will faithfully and impartially discharge all of the duties
and responsibilities required of a City of Boston Emergency Medical Technician to the best of my abilities.
Boston EMS
2012 Awards
Dr. Michael Pozen
PARAMEDIC OF THE YEAR
Awarded to one Department Paramedic who distinguishes him or herself through the exemplary practice of emergency care, contributions to the advancement of EMS, and demonstrations of commitment. Such attributes carry the
legacy of Dr. Michael Pozen whose surviving family sponsors the award named for him.
Michael Yaffe
Over the last twenty-two years, Mike has presented himself with all of the positive qualities and attributes
that the public has come to expect from Boston EMS. Furthermore, Mike encompasses the class,
knowledge, diligence, experience and wisdom of an experienced Boston EMS Paramedic. Mike’s professionalism, demeanor, and character provide him with the ability to carry on the tradition of uncompromised
excellence in patient care that has been the defining hallmark for Boston EMS since its inception. Mike’s
work ethic, compassion, skill and persistent conscientiousness make him a veteran paramedic that other
paramedics emulate.
For this we present him with the Dr. Michael Pozen Paramedic of the Year Award.
13 Photo by Stuart Cahill
Boston EMS
2012 Awards
TELECOMMUNICATOR OF THE YEAR
Awarded to a member of Dispatch Operations who distinguishes him/herself through exemplary performance as a
Telecommunicator.
Sara Curry
Sara is known for her compassion and skills when taking care of patients in the field. She has brought those
skills to Dispatch Operations over the past two years. Sara’s expert handling of distressed callers and excellent
pre-arrival instructions have led to many lives being saved. This past year, she assisted a 12-year-old girl in the
roadside delivery of her mother’s baby and was recognized nationally by the “9-1-1 for Kids” organization. Sara
handles both CMED and dispatching with equal expertise. She manages multiple ambulance-to-hospital connections as well as the deployment of BEMS ambulances like a veteran dispatcher. Her pleasant personality
and willingness to go the extra mile are well known in Dispatch Operations. Sara exemplifies the spirit of
“Patient Centered Dispatch.”
For this we present her with the Telecommunicator of the Year Award.
Boston EMS
2012 Awards
MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEDAL
Awarded to any member of the Service for repeated acts of intelligent and
valuable service; demonstration of unusual faithfulness or acts which demonstrate highly credible integrity and loyalty to the Service.
Peter Holland
Pete is a 29-year veteran of Boston EMS. Always a model employee,
he has also been a positive influence on all the EMTs and Paramedics in the Department. Never one to complain, Peter has an unassuming personality that often causes his good work to be overlooked.
As a field EMT, he seemed to have an endless supply of compassion
and empathy for his patients. As an instructor, he has an incredible
wealth of medical knowledge and its practical applications, which he
shares frequently with a humorous slant that keeps his students’ attention. It is people like Peter who have made Boston EMS the superior service that it is today.
With gratitude for all he has given of himself over so many years, Peter Holland is presented with the Meritorious Service Medal.
CHIEF OF DEPARTMENT’S AWARD
Awarded at the discretion of the EMS Chief to any Department member who
shows outstanding dedication or who distinguishes him or herself through extraordinary actions or services.
Brian Lomond
For 24 years Brian Lomond has served as an EMT in Field Operations. Brian displays his skilled care and compassion to his patients,
their families, and the public on a daily basis. Brian is widely respected in the Hyde Park area where he has primarily worked for the
past several years. His calm, confident, and reassuring manner during difficult and stressful situations is well known among his colleagues and is appreciated by those in EMS and other public safety
agencies. For many years Brian has also been active in the BEMS
Honor Guard where he has always taken his membership duties as
seriously as his EMT responsibilities.
For this, he is presented the Chief of Department’s Award.
Boston EMS
2012 Awards
Edward J. Pike
COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD
Awarded to any Department member who has demonstrated a commitment to
community service. This award is specifically intended for a Department member who, through his or her own initiative, enhances the image of Boston Emergency Medical Services in the community.
Elizabeth Rimas
Beth has been a trainer for the Autism Law Enforcement Education
Coalition (ALEC) for the past seven years. As an EMT and mother of
an autistic child, she is a fierce advocate for autism education of first
responders and caregivers. Her instruction of emergency personnel
throughout New England teaches them to more effectively approach,
treat, and transport persons in the autism spectrum.
For this, Beth is presented with the Edward Pike Community Service
Award.
David Lashman
HUMANITARIAN AWARD
Awarded to any Department member who best exemplifies the warm, humanitarian and compassionate manner that David Lashman provided to each and
every patient, every day. The Lashman family, in memory of David, sponsors
this award.
Thomas Tynes
Tom, a 23-year veteran of Boston EMS, is known for “going the extra mile”
for patients. He looks beyond the immediate emergency by helping them
reach out to other agencies or city programs to obtain additional health
services or even improve their living circumstances. Tom’s care and concern for our patients’ long term support makes him an appropriate recipient
of the David Lashman Humanitarian Award.
Boston EMS
2012 Awards
Stephen M. Lawlor
AWARD FOR COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE
Established in Steve’s memory by his wife Pat, this is awarded annually to
two recipients: one, a member of Boston EMS, who in turn chooses the second recipient from outside of the Department, who has worked with us toward a common goal. It is a fitting memorial to Steve, who worked diligently
to make Boston a safer place, as he worked shoulder to shoulder with members of the greater community.
Thomas Alfieri
Tom has been an EMT in Field Operations for more than 23 years. For
most of those years, he has worked in East Boston where he is widely
respected for his expertise and inherent compassion. Tom has always
shown an eagerness to foster connections with our service partners in
both public agencies and private organizations. He has created working
relationships and personal friendships with colleagues in private ambulance companies, police and fire departments, hospitals, and health centers. The fact that Tom has made these connections while working in
the field instead of through meetings in an administrative assignment
makes his accomplishments all the more extraordinary. In addition to his
relationships outside the Department, Tom has always provided support
and encouragement to his co-workers within the Department.
These qualities, which so closely resemble those of Steve Lawlor, make
him the perfect recipient of this award.
Kenneth Grace
For thirty years Attorney Ken Grace has been one of Boston EMS’s greatest assets. He has repeatedly demonstrated,
and continues to demonstrate, his ability to enhance benefits for the bargaining unit members of Boston EMS. Thanks
to his expertise, each member has the opportunity for a fulfilling career in the pre-hospital arena. He is a soft spoken,
true gentleman whose attention to detail is only exceeded by his understanding, patience, wisdom, and experience. Ken is widely respected as both a family man and attorney. In addition to serving the collective as a whole, Ken
is often called upon to represent and mitigate on behalf of individual members. His compassion and sensitivity are readily felt by those he assists. These attributes closely resemble those of Steve Lawlor which makes Attorney Ken Grace
the perfect recipient of this award.
Steve was a 27-year veteran of Boston EMS who died in October 2005 after a long battle with
cancer. He was well-respected for his calm, confident style of leadership as he rose through the
ranks to Deputy Superintendent and Commander of Special Operations.
Steve was involved in well-known events, such as Boston’s First Night, July 4th Celebration, and
the Boston Marathon. He also worked with many public and private organizations and businesses to make Boston a safe place for all to enjoy. Steve was a staunch supporter of public/private
sector partnerships long before they became popular.
The Stephen M. Lawlor Foundation was formed to continue these collaborative relationships. The activities of the Foundation include the annual Lawlor Award for Collaborative Practice and assisting BEMS members facing financial hardship through the Boston EMS Relief Association.
Boston EMS
2012 Awards
Lieutenant George Carter
MEMORIAL LEADERSHIP AWARD
Awarded to a member of the Boston EMS Relief Association, who, through the years,
consistently demonstrates good judgment and supervisory skill, displays compassion to
patients, co-workers and others, and understands what needs to be done and does it,
often with a sense of humor. The recipient has the courage to consistently stand for his
or her convictions and serves as a mentor to anyone who seeks one. His or her advice
and counsel are sought out by other members of the Department and are freely given
without thought of recompense. The recipient, in general, best exemplifies the character
and qualities of Lieutenant George Carter.
Michael Hurley
The members of the Boston EMS Relief Association have voted Lt. Michael Hurley recipient of this year’s George Carter Award. Mike, a 23-year veteran of Boston EMS, has a calm, reassuring demeanor that makes him widely respected
within the Department. He possesses natural leadership abilities and a vast
working knowledge of EMS. Always professional, Mike leads with humor and a
good-natured self-assurance that sets an outstanding example for his peers.
Boston EMS
PRIDE & PROFESSIONALISM AWARD
Sponsored by East Coast Training Academy, this award is presented to a Boston EMS
member who conducts him/herself as a consummate professional at all times. A model employee, this individual is a patient care advocate and a highly respected colleague. S/He is caring, competent and dedicated.
Brian Drohan
Since arriving at Boston EMS, Brian has defined both pride and professionalism. In appearance and comportment, he carries himself with a subtle
dignity that shows others his work as an EMT is important to him. Brian is
known for his calm confidence and ability to bring control to chaos. He always treats his patients with respect and kindness. It is these qualities that
make Brian the perfect recipient of the Pride and Professionalism award.
18 George Carter worked for
BEMS from 1/23/73 until
his death on 7/18/2000. He
was promoted to Senior
EMT on 2/10/88.
Boston EMS
2012 Awards
Dr. Erwin Hirsch
AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN PRE-HOSPITAL TRAUMA CARE
Established in memory of the Boston Medical Center trauma surgeon, who mentored our EMTs and Paramedics in the importance of emergency medicine, this honor is awarded to a team of EMTs and/or Paramedics who have distinguished themselves through the delivery of exemplary pre-hospital trauma care resulting in the survival of the patient.
Sara Curry, Katherine Dwyer, Paul Giannetti, Felicia Mohammed, Anne Norton,
Ilya Toumilovich
On 03/24/12 at 8:50 p.m., while working in BEMS Dispatch Operations, EMT Ilya Toumilovich answered 9-11 to find a frantic caller on the phone. Ilya took control of the call in order to obtain the location and nature of
the emergency from the anxious person, all while entering the information into the CAD (Computer Aided
Dispatch) system. At 8:51, BEMS Dispatcher Sara Curry sent A-12 and P-3 to the address on the corner of
Bowdoin Street and Washington Street in Dorchester. At 8:53, A-12 with EMTs Felicia Mohammed and Paul
Gianetti arrived to find a 50-year-old male with a life-threatening slash wound to his neck that resulted in an
arterial bleed. The patient was lying on the sidewalk holding a T-shirt to his neck with a profuse amount of
blood on the ground around him. Upon examination they discovered that the knife wound began near his left
ear and continued across his neck to his throat, slicing his carotid artery. The EMTs quickly put the patient
onto a backboard and moved him into the ambulance. As EMT Mohammed applied direct pressure to slow
the bleeding, EMT Gianetti inserted ChitoGauze into the wound. At 8:57, P-3 arrived with Paramedics Anne
Norton and Kate Dwyer. Paramedic Norton took over direct pressure and applied a second ChitoGauze. By
8:59, the EMTs had jumped out to drive the ambulance and were on the way to BMC. Paramedic Dwyer
obtained I.V. access and Paramedic Norton radioed the hospital with a patient report, advising that they
would need to bypass Emergency and head directly to the Operating Room. The units arrived at the hospital
at 9:04 pm, taking the patient directly to the Operating Room where he received four units of blood and
emergency surgery, eventually making a full recovery. It took fourteen minutes from the time the 9-1-1 call
came in for the patient to arrive at a trauma center and receive life-saving treatment.
For their excellence in pre-hospital trauma care, these EMTs and Paramedics are receiving the award
named for our mentor, Dr. Erwin Hirsch.
Ilya Toumilovich
Sara Curry
Felicia Mohammed
Anne Norton
Katherine Dwyer
Dr. Erwin Hirsch was Chief of Trauma Surgery at Boston City Hospital / Boston Medical Center for 35 years. Under his guidance it became a Level One trauma center. He
died May 23, 2008 after a boating accident.
Boston EMS
2012 Awards
Boston EMS
COLLABORATIVE EDUCATOR AWARD
Awarded to an individual or group of individuals who have generously committed their time and expertise to the education of
pre-hospital care providers.
Sgt. Gary Eblan, Registrar, Boston Police Department Academy
With the assistance of Officers Leroy Streat and Ed Qwok, Sgt. Eblan has been an enthusiastic contributor to the continuing education of the EMTs and Paramedics of Boston EMS. These officers have been instrumental in training and
preparing BEMS personnel for situations where medical care and law enforcement intersect, including circumstances
with the potential to put medical providers in harm’s way. In addition to the valuable training provided, they’ve made
themselves available for multiple sessions of varying dates and times to allow as many EMTs and Paramedics as possible to learn from their expertise.
Dr. Phillip McGovern, Jr.
SILVER SPOON AWARD
Established in his memory by the McGovern family, this award is presented to any uniformed personnel who successfully
deliver babies in the field. These honorees assisted at unusual or complicated deliveries.
Miguel Diaz, Michele Chu, Jaclyn Greenwood & Glenn Harding
On 10/10/2011, A-91 & P-3 were dispatched for a woman in labor in a car traveling on I-93. When the contractions
were one minute apart, the driver had exited the expressway and pulled to the side of the road. A-91, with EMT FTO
Miguel Diaz and EMT Recruit Michelle Chu arrived first and found a pregnant woman standing outside the car. She
told them, “I want to push.” They immediately placed her on the stretcher and moved her into the ambulance. P-3 then
arrived with Paramedics Glenn Harding & Jaclyn Greenwood.
While Harding reassured the mother and Diaz did the same with the father, Greenwood prepared to deliver the baby. As childbirth began, Greenwood noticed the umbilical cord wrapped around the infant’s neck. She gently removed
the cord and proceeded to suction the baby’s airway. After the baby was assessed, Diaz asked if the father wanted to
cut the umbilical cord, which he did. Diaz then gave the scissors to the father as a keepsake.
Miguel Diaz
Jaclyn Greenwood
20 Glenn Harding
Boston EMS
2012 Awards
MILITARY COMBAT RIBBON
James Miller
James has been an EMT with BEMS since 1/7/08. He is also a
Staff Sargent with the Army National Guard. He was deployed
to Iraq from June 2004 to January 2006 and Afghanistan from
August 2010 to August 2011.
DEPARTMENT CITATION
Awarded to any Department member who distinguishes him or herself through intelligent, extraordinary action either on or off duty.
James Domaldo
On April 10, 2012, Jim was off-duty, traveling on Route 95 North, when he
came across a motorcycle accident without any emergency services on scene. Jim stopped to render aid to the gravely injured motorcyclist who turned
out to be a Norfolk County Sheriff’s Deputy.
For this, Jim is awarded a Department Citation.
UNIT CITATION
Awarded to any group of Department members, who, while working as a unit, distinguish themselves through intelligent,
extraordinary action in the line of duty.
Fleet Services
Brian McMahon, Neil Blackington, Farley Hipsman, and Sotriaq “Rashi” Trifoni
The Fleet Services division has been understaffed for an extended time. In spite of their lack of personnel, they’ve worked above and beyond the call of duty. In addition to repair work, they have expanded
on the preventative maintenance program to keep our trucks running and in service. Without their dedication, the EMTs and Paramedics of Boston EMS would be unable to respond to and transport our
patients.
Brian McMahon Neil Blackington Farley Hipsman 21 Sotriaq “Rashi” Trifoni BOSTON EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES RELIEF ASSOCIATION
Boston EMS
2012 Awards
UNIT CITATION
Awarded to any group of Department members, who, while working as a unit, distinguish themselves through intelligent,
extraordinary action in the line of duty.
David Cioffi, David Clinard, John Gill, John Horne, William Lewis,
Edward McCarthy, Gary Saffer, Robert Stearns, and Jason Yutkins
On August 21, 2011, A-14 arrived at an MVA on Storrow Drive to find a car that had crashed into a tree
and was on fire with two people trapped inside. While waiting for the fire department to run hose lines, the
EMTs and State Police used multiple hand extinguishers to control the fire. With the fire under control, but
still actively burning, the EMS crews worked in tandem with Boston Fire crews to extricate the seriously
injured patients. Without concern for their own safety, these crews worked together to provide the best
possible care to these patients under unusually dangerous and stressful conditions.
Francis Sheeran, Michael Gallagher, Sean Murphy, Robert Perez, John Casey
On February 18, 2012, Lieutenant Frank Sheeran responded to a call in Neponset Circle for a reported
stabbing. When he arrived, as the first unit on scene, he found two patients with life threatening stab
wounds. One patient had lost a tremendous amount of blood from a femoral arterial bleed. Frank was
quick to determine the severity of the injury and applied a tourniquet to control the bleeding. When P-1
and A-18 arrived, they assisted in applying a second tourniquet. During transport the patient had no blood
pressure and became unconscious. P-1 radioed an advance report to the hospital enabling them to skip
the emergency room and head directly to the operating room. The surgery was successful and the patient
made a full recovery.
Boston EMS
2012 Awards
BOSTON EMS SPECIAL CITATION
Awarded to any person, including a civilian or member of another Department or service, who distinguishes him or herself
through intelligent, extraordinary actions that result in improving Emergency Medical Services, whether during a specific incident
or through continuous contribution.
Elija Allen, Boston EMS Materials Management
On 3/26/12, Elija’s dad had a heart attack that caused sudden cardiac arrest. Elija recognized the severity
of the situation, called 9-1-1, and started CPR on his father. When BEMS arrived, the patient was defibrillated and received ALS care. By the time they arrived at the hospital, Mr. Allen had a pulse and was opening
his eyes. As everyone in emergency medicine knows, caring for friends or family members can significantly
increase the stress of an already demanding situation. Under unimaginable strain, Elija took control and
provided life-saving care to his father.
Lieutenant James Leary, Boston Police Department
On 6/11/11, Police and EMS were dispatched to a call for a man preparing to jump from the 11th floor ledge of a building on Beacon Street. Upon arrival, Lt. Leary, a trained police negotiator, began attempting to talk the patient off the
roof. Due to the statements the patient was making, Lt. Leary determined that the man was in immediate danger of
following through on his threat to jump. When the patient turned to talk to the EMS supervisor, Lt. Leary reached
through the parapet and grabbed the patient’s arm. The EMS Supervisor and other emergency personnel joined Lt.
Leary to pull the patient to safety. The responding personnel on scene all agreed that this patient was moments from
attempting to end his life and that Lt. Leary’s instinct and quick action prevented him from doing so that morning. Robert McHale, Richard Bennett, Peter McNeff, Leonard Hynes, William Howell, Jack Bears
On 12/27/11, as part of the Medical Emergency Response Team at the South Postal Annex, these men responded to
a report of an unresponsive co-worker. They found a male colleague on the floor unconscious and without a pulse.
They started CPR, applied the AED, and delivered two shocks. When BEMS arrived, a third shock was given with
return of pulses. The patient was transported to TMC and survived to hospital discharge. (see page 27)
Robert McHale, Richard Bennett, Peter McNeff, Leonard Hynes, William Howell, Jack Bears
USPS South Postal Annex, Medical Emergency Response Team
A True American Neighborhood Sports Pub, Bar, & Restaurant
617-522-9263 • Centre Street • Jamaica Plain
Boston EMS
SERVICE RIBBONS
30 Years of Service
Michael Bosse
443, 140, 17
02/24/1982
Phillip McGovern
441, 67, 28
02/24/1982
Michael Vojak
439
02/24/1982
John Bilotas
444, 141
04/14/1982
25 Years of Service
Edmund Hassan
509, 162, 8
7/5/1987
Graham Williams
536, 170
7/8/1987
Daniel Morrissey
539, 71
11/29/1987
10/14/1987
4/9/86
20 Years of Service
Michele Canavan
638
8/25/1992
Edward McCarthy
642
1/8/1992
Photos by Melvin Guante-Joseph
24 1/8/1992
Robert Haley
411
09/20/1982
Boston EMS
RETIREES
John Doyle
136, 10
Hired: 12/7/1977
Retired: 4/30/2012
34+ Years of Service
Christopher Stratton
424, 55
Hired: 10/25/1978
Retired: 2/29/2012
Kevin O’Connor
33, 21
Hired: 5/28/1980
Retired: 5/31/2012
32 Years of Service
Michael Vojak
439
Hired: 2/24/1982
Retired: 6/5/2012
2011 Retirees
George Murphy
31, 20
Hired: 8/30/1978
Retired: 1/31/2011
David McClelland
431
Hired: 9/5/1979
Retired: 8/31/2011
30 Years of Service
25 Photos by Melvin Guante-Joseph
Boston EMS
Cardiac Arrest Data
2011 Cardiac Arrests
PRE-HOSPITAL SAVES
1.) Jan 1*
A13
P5
E. Koslowsky & N. Williams
S. Efstathiou & D. Efstathiou
21.) Jun 24
2.) Jan 5*
A13
P2
L. Alexander & A. Amuzzini
J. Allen & M. Giunta
3.) Jan 5*
A10
P1
K. Hunter & S. Ryans
W. DeYoung & R. Locke
22.) Jul 3* EMCO G. Rodriguez
A5 T. Acevedo & T. Miles
P5 S. Cintolo & K. Joyce
A17
P5
L. Lague & J. Yutkins
J. Amaral & T. Finn
5.) Jan 28*
A10
P16
J. Dance & J. Mellen
T. Aquavella & S. McHugh
6.) Jan 31*
A16
P16
R. Furtado & G. McDonough
T. Aquavella & K. Schmidt
7.) Feb 11
A13
P5
L. Alexander & A. Monteiro
D. Efstathiou &
L. Shubitowski
8.) Mar 2*
A16
P2
B. Carlson & R. Hickey
R. Aiello & Z. Wiley
4.) Jan 14*
9.) Mar 4* EMCO N. Santiago
A6 I. Cochran & D. Jerzylo
P1 W. DeYoung & S. Efstathiou
10.) Mar 10* A13
P5
B. Drohan & A. Quarles
J. Amaral & T. Finn
11.) Mar 11* A18
P5
E. Cournoyer & T. Perez
S. Cintolo & R. LeBlanc
12.) Apr 1*
L. Alexander & A. Monteiro
D. Efstathiou & G. Harding
A13
P5
13.) Apr 11* A10
P1
K. Horne & R. Stearns
R. Covino & M. Zemina
14.) Apr 15* EMCO
A9
P16
SC
R. Cordero
F. Abbatangelo & A. Shea
J. Greenwood & L. Lee
M. Bosse
15.) Apr 17*
16.) May 9*
A1 E. McAlister & K. Oubijjane
A16 M. Furlotte-Bois &
E. Hazelton
P16 J. Allen & J. Greenwood
17.) May 10* A18
P2
K. Cronin & D. Hickey
J. Attias & Z. Wiley
18.) May 13
S. Hennegan & K. Zion
T. Hanson, R. Locke, &
L. Marshall
A1
P1
19.) May 14* A18
P5
23.) Jul 28*
24.) Aug 6*
25.) Aug 6*
26.) Aug 7*
27.) Aug 10
A8
P1
J. McCabe & M. Yaffe
T. Binnall & D. Olesen
C. Allen & L. Desir
R. Locke & P. Sullivan
A16 M. Bryer &
M. Guante-Joseph
P1 D. Cioffi & J. Horne
A4
P1
T. Hooley & J. McCabe
W. DeYoung &
J. Weaver
EMCO J. Jean-Louis
A13 B. Drohan, A. Quarles, &
C. Genaro
P16 R. Souza & M. Yaffe
P5
J. Lord, A. Quarles, &
J. Murphy
D. Efstathiou & M. Moran
A2
P2
M. Devlin & M. Ring
W. Lewis & G. Saffer
29.) Aug 21* A10
P5
S. Rook & S. Ryans
J. Amaral & M. Carty
28.) Aug 15*
30.) Aug 22*
A18
A5
T. Acevedo &
J. McCormick
P5 R. O’Connell &
J. Pearsull
31.) Aug 30* A17
P3
J. Doyle & L. Lague
K. Dwyer & M. Gabriele
32.) Sep 16 EMCO K. Cox
A16 M. Furlotte-Bois &
R. Hickey
P16 T. Aquavella & L. Lee
33.) Sep 18
A19
34.) Sep 19
A1
P1
A. Beckett & E. Cook
J. Horne & D. Williams
35.) Sep 19*
A8
P1
J. Dance & W. Dunbar
36.) Oct 1*
A6
C. Mancuso &
T. Williams
W. Lewis & G. Saffer
L. Amichetti & B. Lomond
W. DeYoung & K. Joyce
20.) Jun 2* EMCO J. McHugh
A5 L. Christanski & K. Foley
P5 J. Amaral & J. Greenwood
A4
P2
A. Horner &
C. Thompson
P3 G. Harding & R. Souza
P2
37.) Oct 4*
A16
P16
L. Lee & D. Mitchell
38.) Oct 7*
A6
P1
B. Cheney & A. Levine
R. Locke & S. Murphy
By Deb Acres, Claire Madigan‐McNeil, & Kay Schmidt 26 39.) Oct 8*
A92
P1
J. Georges, E. Barros, & T. Link
M. Sullivan & M. Zemina
40.) Oct 12
A16
P1
J. Allen & J. Weaver
41.) Oct 26
A7
P1
J. Class & M. Murphy
42.) Oct 28*
A8
P1
C. Biggins & S. Solletti
J. Weaver & M. Zemina
43.) Nov 5*
A14
P16
J. Anderson & R. Wilson
S. McHugh & K. Schmidt
44.) Nov 11
A2
P2
J. Lord & T. Perreault
T. Binnall & M. Giunta
45.) Nov 11* EMCO J. Montes
A1 J. Lopez & A. Zeller
P1 D. Olesen & J. Weaver
46.) Nov 21
A9
P2
D. Gibbons & M. Regan
J. Bilotas & T. Binnall
47.) Nov 28* EMCO R. Barnes
A6 T. Stewart & T. Williams
P1 D. Cioffi & M. Sullivan
48.) Nov 29 EMCO M. Mynahan
A5 J. Smith & J. Walton
P5 S. Cintolo & R. O’Connell
49.) Dec 2
A13
P5
A. Campbell & P. Villarreal
M. Moran & R. Souza
50.) Dec 3*
A11
P3
M. Diaz & S. Rivas
J. Ahern & M. Gabriele
51.) Dec 6* EMCO K. Higgins
A9 M. Regan & M. Whitman
P16 T. Aquavella & S. McHugh
52.) Dec 13* EMCO D. Taylor
A16 R. Furtado & B. Parham
P2 R. LeBlanc & W. Lewis
53.) Dec 18*
A7
P1
P. Ashe & R. Lord
R. Locke & D. Olesen
54.) Dec 20* EMCO A. Panagopoulos
A3 B. Lashley & J. Lucchetti
P5 M. Gallagher & R. LeBlanc
55.) Dec 20 EMCO J. Jean-Louis
A1 S. Hennegan & K. Zion
P1 S. Efstathiou & R. Locke
56.) Dec 25
57.) Dec 27 *
A13
P5
B. Drohan & N. Williams
K. Joyce & M. Moran
A1
P1
A. Beckett & M. Steeves
D. Mitchell & S. Murphy
*Category 1
Boston EMS
Cardiac Arrest Data
BY THE NUMBERS
In 2011, Boston EMS responded to 921 Cardiopulmonary Arrests.
Of those, 454 were non-viable and did not receive CPR.
The 467 arrests that received CPR were divided into three etiologies: Medical-109, Trauma-39, and Cardiac-319.
Of the 319 arrests of cardiac etiology, 134 received CPR and advanced care that was eventually terminated in the field.
The other 185 received CPR and advanced care and were transported to a hospital.
Of the 185 arrests of cardiac etiology that were transported to hospitals, 57 survived to hospital discharge (saves).
Of the 57 saves, 75% (43 of 57) were category 1 (good cerebral performance). These patients were not deprived of oxygen
long enough for brain damage to occur.
SUCCESS STORIES
Case #4 On 01/14/11, A17 EMTs Lindsay Lague & Jason Yutkins and P5 Paramedics Joseph Amaral & Thomas Finn were dispatched to a
home in Roslindale. A 46 y/o female with a history of substance abuse was apneic and pulseless. A17 started CPR, applied the AED,
shocked twice, and had return of pulses. When P5 arrived, the patient was still unconscious but had a pulse and blood pressure. Her treatment included EKG, IV, intubation, medications, and therapeutic hypothermia. The patient was transported to BWH, and later discharged
category 1.
Case #11 On 03/11/11, A18 EMTs Estelle Cournoyer & Tania Perez and P5 Paramedics Sharon Cintolo & Ryan LeBlanc were dispatched to
a home in Hyde Park. A 54 y/o woman’s family had witnessed her collapse at home. A18 found the patient apneic & pulseless and started
CPR, applied the AED, and shocked twice. P5 arrived and intubated the patient, shocked a third time with return of pulses. Further treatment
included medications and therapeutic hypothermia. Patient was transported to BWH and later discharged category 1.
Case #37 On 10/04/11, A16 EMTs Brian Carlson & Ryan Hickey and P16 Paramedics Laura Lee & Dennis Mitchell were dispatched to a
private club on Commonwealth Avenue in the Back Bay. An 83 y/o male had collapsed after playing racquetball. Staff & bystanders started
CPR, applied an onsite AED and shocked twice. When A16 arrived, the patient was unconscious but had pulses and respirations. P16 arrived and started an IV, administered medications, then extricated. Inside the ambulance more medications were given, the patient was intubated, and therapeutic hypothermia initiated. Patient transported to MGH and later discharged category 1.
Case #43 On 11/05/11, A14 EMTs Joseph Anderson & Robert Wilson and P16 Paramedics Steven McHugh & Kay Schmidt were dispatched
to Washington Street in Brighton. A 63 y/o female had overdosed at home and was pulseless with agonal respirations. A14 started treatment
with CPR. When P16 arrived further treatment included IO, medications, and intubation after which the patient’s pulses returned. She then
received therapeutic hypothermia and was transported to St. Elizabeth’s, later discharged category 1.
Case # 45 On 11/11/11, A1 EMTs Jessica Lopez & Andrew Zeller and P1 Paramedics Jay Weaver & Dan Olsen were dispatched to Devonshire Street, Downtown. A 48 y/o male had collapsed while exercising at a gym. With telephone instructions from EMCO John Montes, gym
staff started CPR, applied an AED, and shocked once. When A1 arrived, CPR was continued and the patient was shocked a second time.
P1 then arrived and delivered a third shock which resulted in the return of pulses. Though the patient remained unresponsive, he had a pulse
and blood pressure with agonal respirations. He received an IV, was intubated, transported to MGH and later discharged category 1.
Case # 52 On 12/13/11, A16 EMTs Roger Furtado & Benjamin Parham and P2 Paramedics William Lewis & Ryan LeBlanc were dispatched
to a home in Roxbury where a 19 y/o female with a history of cardiomyopathy had collapsed. EMCO Danyelle Taylor provided CPR instructions to the family over the phone. Finding the patient pulseless with agonal respirations, A16 performed CPR. P2 arrived and shocked twice
with the return of pulses. The patient was intubated, received an IV, medications, and therapeutic hypothermia. She was transported to
BWH and later discharged category 1.
Case # 57 On 12/27/11, A1 EMTs Andre Beckett & Marc Steeves and P1 Paramedics Sean Murphy & Dennis Mitchell were dispatched to
the South Postal Annex on Dorchester Avenue, Downtown. A 65 y/o male employee had collapsed. Co-workers started CPR, retrieved and
applied their AED, and shocked twice. When A1 & P1 arrived, CPR was continued and the patient was shocked a third time which resulted in
the return of pulses. Further treatment included IV, intubation and medications. He was transported to TMC and later discharged category 1.
The co-workers that started CPR were issued a Special Citation from Boston EMS, see page 23.
27 By Deb Acres, Claire Madigan‐McNeil, & Kay Schmidt BOSTON EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES RELIEF ASSOCIATION
Boston EMS
Our History
BEMS First Awards Ceremony - 1992
Boston EMS
Our History
BEMS First Awards Ceremony - 1992
First Row L to R: Peter Brown, Angelo Hernandez, Richard Covino, Rafael Hernandez, Carlos Grau Second Row: Mayor Ray
Flynn, David Walles, Mrs. Neal Braverman, Debra O’Neill, Mary MacTaggart, Deborah Acres, Bradley Anderson, Kay Schmidt,
Judith Kurland, DH&H Commissioner, Stephen Antonino, Kathleen McGovern. Third Row: David Ladd, Richard Serino, David
Troup, Willis Saunders, Deputy Supt., BPD, Stephen Lawlor, Kevin Shea, John Healey, William Lessard, Stephen Hillson, Bryant
Boddie, Michael Reardon, Christopher Stratton, Stephen Wallace, Brian Pomodoro, Dianne Cavaleri, Mickey Roach, BPD Commissioner.
Recipients not pictured: Neal Braverman, Bruce Dyer, Thomas Hartman, and Paul Savage.
Boston EMS
Our History
First Ambulance Station in Boston
1899
From Statistics Department Special Publication No. 9
Receipts and Expenditures of Ordinary Revenue 1898-1902 (Published by Boston Municipal Printing Office)
“In 1899 the Trustees of the Boston City Hospital requested that a portion of the land purchased by the City of Boston from the Boston Transit
Commission be transferred to their care for the purpose of the erection thereon of a relief and ambulance station.”
“The erection of a building was begun in 1900 and completed and opened to the public on February 20, 1902. The building is a three-story
brick structure with a one-story ell over the subway on the easterly side; the structure is built of brick with sandstone trimmings.”
1900
From the Boston Evening Transcript October 4, 1900
Trustees Award Contracts for a Building to be Erected in Haymarket Square
“Awards were made yesterday at a meeting of the Board of Trustees of the City Hospital for the down-town relief station. Which is to be built
in Haymarket Square on the site of the old Boston & Maine railroad station. The general contract was awarded to H.P. Cummings & Co. of
Boston; the contract for heating to Huey Brothers, and that for the electric equipment to the Boston Electric Company
For some time the plan of establishing such a branch of the hospital has been under the consideration of the trustees. There has never been
any appropriation for it, however, and the trustees were unable to take definite action until the money was given to the hospital. They have
been permitted by the executors of the will of Thomas T. Wyman to utilize $100,000 for the building of a relief and ambulance station, the
plans for which have been drawn by Kendall, Taylor & Stevens.”
1902
From the Boston Evening Transcript February 20, 1902
Relief Station Opens - Police Ambulance Brings First Patient to Haymarket Square Hospital
Surgeons, nurses, and other members of the staff were on hand early at the City Hospital relief station in Haymarket square. Horses were
hitched to the ambulances, ready for duty, and the automobile ambulance made its appearance for experimental trips. A new flag was hauled
to the top of the staff, and at nine o’clock the doors were thrown open to the public with officers and watchmen on guard to give directions to
visitors seeking medical or surgical help. It was only 8:40 however, when an ambulance from the Hanover Street police station rushed up to
the hospital doors with a patient—the first to be treated in the new institution. It was John Leahy, forty-three years old, of 7 Cook Street,
Charlestown. While he was at work this morning in a store on North Street, a barrel filled with beer fell on him and injured his back. At the
Relief Station he received temporary treatment, after which one of the hospital ambulances hurried him off to the City Hospital. In this instance the patient was under the care of physicians and in most favorable circumstances much sooner after his accident than if there had
been no relief station in Haymarket square. His injuries are not of alarming seriousness, but they will incapacitate him for work for a considerable length of time, and may confine him to bed a fortnight. That was the reason for transferring him to the City Hospital where there is ample
room for keeping him as long as necessary. Several other people who needed medical or surgical help called soon after. Taking into consideration that it was not generally known among people in the district that the new hospital would be opened, the first day’s work might be
looked upon as plentiful and important.
Practically everything was ready for the day. Dr. John Bottomley, surgeon in charge, said that the aim of the institution will be to give a
prompt, courteous and efficient service to the public. If a patient desires to be conveyed to the Massachusetts General, the Emergency Hospital or to his home his wishes will be respected and the hospital ambulance will be as much as his disposal as if he were to be taken to the
City Hospital. The relief station will give medical and surgical aid to the citizens of Boston or to strangers who may be injured or suddenly
taken ill while in the city. It will send ambulances in answer to calls for transporting of persons who have been injured to the station and to
Boston City Hospital. It is not intended to be a hospital for the continuous treatment of any class of patients except those persons who are so
seriously injured that their life would be endangered by transportation; nor is it intended that it shall be a dispensary for the continuous treatment of chronic cases.
It has three telephone connections with the outside world, but two of those are receiving lines only, and when any of them are busy it means
that someone from the outside has called up the hospital. The receiving calls are 733 and 734 Haymarket; the other call which can be used in
the hospital for sending out messages is number 753 Haymarket. In addition to these lines, it has direct communication with the City Hospital,
so as to summons aid without waiting for any “central” to make connections. The interior telephone system is most complete. It connects
nearly all the rooms on all the floors, and besides that there is a system of gongs striking simultaneously on all floors. Thus the employees
may constantly be in touch with each other and with the City Hospital. And the public has two lines free from inside interference and one
which it uses in common with the hospital staff.
Boston EMS
Our History
First Ambulance Station in Boston
The Haymarket Square Relief Hospital was an emergency center designed to quickly treat
those injured in industrial accidents. It contained Boston’s first ambulance station.
Haymarket Square, The Boston City Hospital Relief Station and North Station, Boston, MA
33 Contributed by John Cotter
Boston EMS
Our History
The Origins of the City of Boston Ambulance Service 1861—1900
On the morning of June 13, 1861, the members of the Boston City Council gathered at the Old City Hall on School Street for a
hearing on the subject of health care. A devastating cholera epidemic had left the Massachusetts General Hospital hopelessly
overcrowded, and a special committee appointed by the City Council had already concluded that a municipal hospital was
badly needed. One question had yet to be resolved, however. Boston’s population was booming, and land was quickly becoming a scarce commodity. Where, the residents of the city wanted to know, would this new hospital be located.
The City Council’s choices were limited. In fact, the hospital would have to be located in one of two areas - either on Fort Hill,
in downtown Boston; or in the South End. Several years earlier, a wealthy landlord by the name of Elisha Goodnow had become the first patient to undergo surgery at the Massachusetts General. Grateful for the care he’d been given, Goodnow had
left to the city seven apartment buildings on Cross Street in the North End. Under provisions of Goodnow’s will, these buildings would be sold, and the proceeds would be used to create a hospital that would cater to the needs of the “less fortunate
classes.” For some reason, Goodnow had been quite specific about where he wanted this hospital to be located, however.
The hospital would have to be built either on Fort Hill or in the South End; otherwise, the city wouldn’t be allowed to inherit
Goodnow’s property.
At first, the City Council wanted to build the hospital on Fort Hill. But when plans for the new facility were announced, a group
of wealthy Fort Hill residents, fearful that the hospital would attract “paupers” and other unsavory characters, staged a loud
and angry protest. The Council quickly reversed its decision, and a site for the new hospital was purchased in the South End.
Unfortunately, this plan had one minor flaw: nobody lived in the South End. In 1861, the South End was nothing more than a
barren landfill, and the nearest home was several miles away. How were patients supposed to get to this new facility, a number of citizens asked, when it was located so far away. The Council studied the problem carefully, and came up with the following solution:
“This inconvenience will be obviated in some measure by distributing about the city ambulance wagons, contrived for the purpose of carrying to the hospital, without jar or exposure, patients unable to endure the motion of ordinary vehicles. Upon their
arrival they can be raised without exertion by lift to the wards.”
Remarkably, when the Boston City Hospital opened its doors three years later, the ambulance service still did not exist. In
fact, it wasn’t until 1892 - twenty-eight years after the hospital was established - that the City Hospital Ambulance Service
transported its first patient. Originally, the Ambulance Service consisted of eleven horses and two ambulance carriages. The
stables were located on Albany Street, in an old wooden building that had once served as a smallpox hospital. Twelve men
lived at the facility, and worked as “horsekeepers, chore men, and porters.” In general, the patients who were transported by
the city ambulance received no medical care until they reached the hospital, because the men who operated the carriages
were given no medical training. Surgical cases were the exception to this rule. Occasionally, a surgeon would be dispatched
along with the ambulance so that an injured extremity could be amputated at the scene. Fires were extremely common during
this period, and because the mortality rate for fire-related injuries was so high, an ambulance was always dispatched whenever a second alarm was sounded.
By the turn of the century, a simple communications system had been installed at the City Hospital’s front gate. Whenever an
ambulance bearing an injured patient approached the hospital, a gatekeeper would phone the Administrator’s Office, and the
surgical division of the hospital would be notified that a patient was about to arrive. Stretchers would be brought to the front
door, and a “surgical house officer would be summoned without delay for immediate attendance.”
The first ambulance satellite was established in 1900 at the Boston City Hospital Relief Station in Haymarket Square. This
facility, which was little more than a three-story, freestanding emergency room had been created in response to a large number of industrial accidents in the area of North Station. A large door on the Canal Street side of the building allowed ambulance carriages to drive directly into the facility. Stables were located on the ground floor, and sleeping quarters were provided for the ambulance crews, who essentially lived at the facility. The City Council considered this arrangement to be a success, and in the coming years, a number of additional “ambulance stations” were constructed throughout Boston.
After the turn of the century, horse-drawn ambulance were gradually replaced by mechanized ones. Police Department ambulances eventually took over much of the city’s emergency work, but the City Hospital Ambulance Service would remain a
fixture in Boston well into the Twentieth century.
Jay Weaver
Boston EMS
Boston EMS
Our Organization Today
BEMS Overview
Boston Emergency Medical Services (BEMS) is a nationally recognized leader in the field of pre-hospital emergency medicine.
In 2011 alone, BEMS ambulances responded to 108,343 calls for help, making it one of the busiest EMS systems in the nation.
This City of less than 46 square miles has more than 617,000 residents and an estimated daytime population of 1 million, all of
whom rely on 24 ambulances to respond to their medical emergencies.
Boston EMS applies the latest advances in medicine and technology to provide Boston residents and visitors with superior prehospital medical care.
While the primary mission of BEMS is responding to 9-1-1 calls, BEMS also plays an important role in the City’s emergency preparedness efforts. BEMS combines public health with public safety and works closely with public and private organizations and
businesses in planning and preparing for disasters and multiple casualty incidents.
Under the guidance of the Medical Director, the 226 Basic EMTs and 58 Paramedics staff the divisions of Field Operations, Dispatch Operations, Special Operations, and Research, Training, & Quality Improvement.
35 Photos by Kay Schmidt & Robert Stearns BOSTON EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES RELIEF ASSOCIATION
Boston EMS
Field Operations
BEMS utilizes a two-tier response model of Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS). BLS ambulances are
staffed by two EMTs responsible for treating and transporting patients to hospitals. ALS ambulances are staffed by two
Paramedics with advanced training and the ability to deliver complex medical treatment in the field.
The department staffs 19 BLS and 5 ALS ambulances (during peak hours) that respond to more than 350 incidents per day.
In 2011, the 108,343 calls for help resulted in 78,629 transports. This heavy call volume makes the EMTs and Paramedics of
Boston EMS proficient in the evaluation and management of all types of illness and injury.
In addition to treating people with traumatic injuries, such as those sustained during a motor vehicle crash, violent act, or industrial accident, Boston EMS EMTs and Paramedics routinely assess and manage patients at home or work who are experiencing medical illness, such as stroke, heart attack, asthma, seizures, or overdose.
Photos by William Lessard & Elizabeth Rimas
Boston EMS
Dispatch Operations
Boston EMS Dispatch Operations Division is the first contact that 9-1-1 callers have during a medical emergency. The men
and women of the “turret” are uniformed Boston EMS EMTs with more than 4 months of additional training to function in the
roles of call-taker, dispatcher, and CMED operator. Though the service they provide is often underappreciated and “behind the
scenes,” their function is a vital part of patient care. Every caller receives pre-arrival instructions in order to begin treatment
before the arrival of an ambulance. This can be as simple as suggesting to place a clean, dry cloth over a laceration or as detailed as giving CPR instructions to untrained callers. These directions form a bridge between the illness or injury and handson care supplied by field units. Through CMED (Central Emergency Medical Direction) and BAMA (Boston Area Ambulance
Mutual Aid), BEMS Telecommunicators also provide regional response coordination and disaster management to outside
agencies and ambulance services. Over the past year, the communications systems have been upgraded and protocols improved, all with the vision of delivering “Patient Centered Dispatch.”
37 Photos by Bruce Proulx
Boston EMS
Special Operations
The Special Operations Division prepares for and responds to major incidents, including scheduled special events and
unplanned disasters. Every year Boston hosts several major events that bring millions of people into the city. The Boston
Marathon, July 4th celebration on the Esplanade, and First Night celebration all require significant emergency medical support.
Boston EMS treats these events as “controlled” Mass Casualty Incidents and uses them to practice and improve disaster
response. In addition to these major events, there are hundreds of festivals, parades, road races, and other gatherings that
require EMS support. Last year alone, Boston EMS Special Operations Division personnel provided logistical support to more
than 500 events.
In order to quickly respond to and treat patients during special events and major emergencies, Boston EMS utilizes resources
beyond traditional ambulance units. EMS bike teams and all-terrain vehicles (“Gators”) provide the ability to maneuver through
congested areas. At large events, fixed medical stations are used to treat ill and injured patients directly on-site. Boston EMS
EMTs and Paramedics are also assigned to the Boston Police Harbor Unit during boating season and for special events, such
as Tall Ships or the July 4th celebration. These resources help Boston EMS reach patients quickly and deliver initial care more
rapidly that would be possible with only ambulances.
Photos by Deborah Acres, Denny Chan, & Rafael Hernandez 38 TWENTIETH ANNUAL AWARDS BANQUET
Boston EMS
Research, Training, & Quality Improvement
RTQI is responsible for the training and development of all Boston EMS EMTs and Paramedics. The Department provides its
personnel with regularly scheduled Continuing Education classes and Refresher courses. Ongoing in-service training and updates from RTQI training staff, command staff, BEMS physicians, and guest lecturers allow BEMS members to stay current on
clinical and operational issues.
All new EMTs and Paramedics are required to complete intensive training through Boston EMS’s accredited Training Academy.
Boston EMS also provides CPR and AED training to schools, Boston Police & Fire, and other agencies and community programs.
In 2011, RTQI educators, along with a staff of Field Training Officers, trained and evaluated 24 EMTs who entered the Recruit
Academy in March, which resulted in August’s successful graduation of 18 newly badged department members. Additionally,
Community EMT Courses, taught by Captains Scarna and Holland with several BEMS EMT assistants, lead to 35 high school
students becoming State Certified EMTs. And, in collaboration with Northeastern University and a Skillworks Grant, Boston
EMS recently completed a second class of paramedic students.
The DelValle Institute for Emergency preparedness is a section of the BEMS RTQI. It provides all-hazards training to emergency response personnel and administrative training to commanders and managers of all levels. The DelValle Institute travels
throughout eastern Massachusetts delivering classroom instruction, practical training, and, through the newly opened Learning
Center, on-line training as well.
39 Photos by Paul Hughes & Brian Pomodoro
Boston EMS
Our Future
Proposed BEMS HQ Facade
In 2011, Boston EMS payroll and administrative staff moved into the Miranda Creamer building.
For the first time, all Boston EMS offices, classrooms, administrative, and training staff are located
in one building. Above is an artist’s rendering of the proposed facade for the main entrance of
BEMS HQ at 785 Albany Street.
2011 Recruit Class
Row 1 left to right: Jessica Lopez (1041), Michelle Chu (1047), Asia Campbell (1046), Candice Harper (1044).
Row 2 left to right: Michael Giunta, Jr. (1042), Juan Rivas (1052), Elizabeth Rimas (739), Charles Genaro (1050),
Daniel McCaughin (1049), James Murphy (1043), Evaldo Barros (1056). Row 3 left to right: Mark Keith (1051),
James Anderson (1055), Trevor Link (1048), Christopher Taylor (1053), Robert Grueter (1045), John Walton (832),
John Casey (1054).
Boston EMS
Events
Dedication of
BEMS Station 4
at Tufts Medical
Center on July
15, 2010.
Christmas party & raffle,
December 16, 2011
Boston Marathon, April 16, 2012
BEMS Honor Guard at Fenway Park during EMS Week, May 25, 2012
41 Photos by Deborah Acres, Stephen Beyer,
Michael MacNeil, & Kay Schmidt
Boston EMS
Support Staff
Fleet Maintenance
Administrative Assistants
Budget, Finance, & Payroll
Materials Management
Management Information Systems
Communications
Engineering
DelValle Institute for
Emergency Preparedness
Photos by Ken McCarron
42 Boston EMS
45 Photos by William Lessard, Elizabeth Rimas, & Susan Rook
Boston EMS Paramedics
101
George Clark
151 Walter Kennedy
102
Manny Dart*
152
103
Cheryl Frazier*
153
Paul McGillivary
104
Maggie Harling
154
Bradley Anderson
105
Timothy Holland
155
Joseph Amaral
106
Tom Kenney
156
Harry Mathews
107
David Ladd
157
John Gill
108
Ken Leary
158
David Walles
109
Jon Levine
159
Gary Saffer
110
Mary Magee
160
unassigned
111
Bernard Newman
161
Kevin Crane
112
Nicholas O’Neil
162
Edmund Hassan
113
Stephen O’Rourke
163
William Lewis
114
Kevin Shea
164
Kay Schmidt
115
Mark Tremblay
165
Roger Aiello
116
Richard Serino
166
Thomas Aquavella
117
Paul Ahearn
167
Bruce Dyer
118
Sharon Collins
168
Paul Hughes
119
Robert Freitas
169
Joseph O’Hare
120
James Hooley
170
Graham Williams
121
Lawrence MacDougall
171
Thomas Binnall
122
Thomas Maciejko
172
Eric Goedecke
123
William Miraglia
173
Unassigned
124
Kevin Prendergast
174
John Ahern
125
Thomas Scott*
175
Adam Corneille
126
Alberto Torres
176
Richard Graham
127
Carl Weinstein
177
Dennis Perkins
128
Daniel White
178
Maureen Quirk
129
Anthony Zarrillo
179
Sean Stentiford
130
Stephen Antonino
180
Petrina Sullivan
131
Dianne Cavaleri
181
Susan Schiller
132
Andrew Klemenakis
182
Dennis Mitchell
133
Richard O’Brien
183
Steven McHugh
134
James Roache
184
Amy Doyle
135
Daniel Hickey
185
Mark Duffy
136
John Doyle
186
Michael Reardon
137
Brendan Kearney
187
Stephen Fleming
138
Kevin Donovan
188
Keith Wilson
139
Cliff Nolan
189
Joseph Kalil
140
Michael Bosse
190
Derek Rappaport
141
John Bilotas
191
Robert Flater
142
James Ahern
192
Sharon Cintolo
143
Juli Nichols
193
Robert Morley
144
Alta Pete Brown
194
Michael Giunta
145
Richard Covino
195
Michael Yaffe
146
Stephen Lawlor
196
Timothy Geary
147
Leonard Shubitowski
197
Michael Zemina
148
Michael Sullivan
198
Anne Norton
149
150
Jay Weaver
Stephen Johnson
199
David Cruse
200
Katherine Dwyer
Mark LaChance
It is with overwhelming pride and honor that I thank everyone who has made this event possible. The amount of time spent on award submissions, taking pictures, selecting award recipients, book design, ticket sales, letter writing, video creating, and notifying honorees, along with just taking time out of your personal lives to be involved, has not gone unnoticed. Ever year it amazes me to watch as this banquet comes together. Without the contribution of each and every one of you, this evening of recognition for our co‐workers would never happen. With great respect, I thank you all for everything you have done to create such a successful event. James Salvia President Cover Credit
The Yearbook Team
2012 Cover by Deb Acres
Stephen Beyer - 2007
Jeffrey Mayes - 2004
Ken McCarron - 1994, 1999, 2000
Contributors
Stephen Beyer
Denny Chan
John Cotter
Virginia Famolare
Melvin Guante-Joseph
Rafael Hernandez
Daniel Hickey
Paul Hughes
William Lessard
Michael MacNeil
Claire Madigan-McNeil
Ken McCarron
Edward McCarthy
Juli Nichols
Brian Pomodoro
Bruce Proulx
Elizabeth Rimas
Marni Ring
Susan Rook
Robert Stearns
Jay Weaver
Advertisement
Jaclyn Greenwood
Robert Locke
James Salvia
Editors
Deborah Acres
Kimberly Horne
Kay Schmidt
48

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