Honoring Utah’s Emergency Responders

(Salt Lake City, Utah) – The Utah Department of Health (UDOH), Bureau of Emergency Medical Services and Preparedness paid tribute to the emergency medical professionals representing the many dedicated heroes whose mission is saving lives.  Today’s EMS Awards Ceremony commemorated 2011 National EMS Week, May 15-21, 2011. 

Special recognition was given to those who responded to a State Parks and Recreation Law Enforcement Officer who was shot while patrolling a trail area in Grand County.  Officer Brody Young was approaching a vehicle when a man confronted him and shot him nine times.  Recognition was also given to two nurses from Brigham City Community Hospital who responded when their colleague, an emergency room physician, collapsed in the ER while on duty.

“The theme for this year is ‘EMS: Everyday Heroes’ which gives us the opportunity to recognize the value and the accomplishments of emergency medical services providers,” said Bureau Director Paul Patrick.  “The EMS system consists of emergency physicians, nurses, medical technicians, trauma surgeons, paramedics, firefighters, educators, dispatchers, administrators, and others who spend thousands of hours obtaining specialized training and continuing education to enhance their lifesaving skills,” he added.

“As I reflect on the many lives the men and women in the EMS profession have affected, my respect and admiration for their commitment and fortitude continues to expand,” said Paul Patrick.  “It is one of the highlights of the year to have the opportunity to thank them and acknowledge their remarkable service.”
             
For more information on the EMS Awards Ceremony, visit the UDOH Bureau of Emergency Medical Services and Preparedness website at www.health.utah.gov/ems.

Media Contact:
Tamara Goodin
Emergency Medical Services Systems
Cell: (801) 230-2963
Office: (801) 273-6672

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