Recognizing National Ems Week

Floor Speech

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Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize National EMS Week.

Since 1974, we have set time aside each year to honor the critical work of our Nation's emergency medical services professionals. These brave men and women are often the first line of defense in moments of crisis, responding to emergencies with speed, skill, and selflessness.

Whether it is an accident on a rural road or a medical emergency in a busy town center, EMS professionals are there to ensure that help arrives when it is needed most.

These individuals provide more than just medical assistance. They offer calm in chaos, hope in despair, and lifesaving care under pressure. They work long hours, often in physically and emotionally demanding environments, yet continue to serve with unwavering dedication.

The job requires technical skills, physical strength, deep compassion, and a calling to serve others.

EMS providers are vital to maintaining the health and safety of the public, especially in rural communities like my district, where resources can be limited and the stakes are high.

As someone who has spent more than three decades on the front lines as a volunteer firefighter and EMT, I have seen firsthand the extraordinary courage and commitment of EMS personnel. I have been privileged to work alongside them during some of the most challenging moments a person or community can face. I can say with certainty that these professionals are heroes in every sense of the word.

Here in Pennsylvania, we are especially proud to recognize one of our own. Chief Fred Ferguson of Moshannon Valley Emergency Medical Services was recently named the recipient of the 2025 Pennsylvania EMS Educator of the Year Award. This prestigious honor is awarded to an EMS educator who has demonstrated excellence in preparing the next generation of emergency responders.

Chief Ferguson has more than 30 years of experience as a paramedic. He holds multiple instructor certifications, including basic life support, pediatric advanced life support, advanced cardiac life support, Stop the Bleed, and first aid.

Throughout his career, Chief Ferguson has trained thousands of students, instilling in them the knowledge, skill, and integrity that the profession demands.

Chief Ferguson's impact extends beyond the classroom. He was recently appointed EMS Chief at Moshannon Valley EMS, where he continues to lead with distinction.

In 2019, he was also honored with the Pennsylvania Office of Rural Health Community Star Award, recognizing his contributions to improving rural healthcare.

Chief Ferguson holds a bachelor's of science in microbiology from Penn State University and multiple degrees in emergency medicine, underscoring his deep commitment to both science and service.

Mr. Speaker, National EMS Week is about more than recognition. It is about gratitude. It is about coming together as a nation to thank the EMTs, paramedics, dispatchers, trainers, and supervisors who stand ready every day and every night and in every corner of this country.

I congratulate Chief Ferguson and thank every EMS professional for their courage, care, and commitment to saving lives. America is stronger, safer, and more resilient because of them.

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