A Kern County paramedic and EMT will join 141 peers from across the United States next month in Washington, DC, when they are honored as Stars of Life by the American Ambulance Association.  Stars of Life pays tribute to the dedication of these hometown heroes while shining light on the critical role EMS plays in our healthcare infrastructure.

Paramedic Sam Swanson and EMT Krystal Barboza were selected by Hall Ambulance as standout EMS professionals worthy of this recognition at our Nation’s Capital.  As Stars of Life honorees, they will meet with members of Congress and congressional aides to share their stories and unique perspectives as EMS workers.  Paramedic Swanson and EMT Barboza will receive a medallion and plaque in thanks for their lifesaving and life-sustaining service to the communities they serve in Kern County.

Paramedic Swanson is being honored for his 25 years with Hall Ambulance, during which he has exhibited a “whatever you need me to do” attitude.  Swanson joined the Company in 1999 as an EMT, working his way through the ranks as a paramedic, relief paramedic field supervisor, paramedic field supervisor, and paramedic preceptor.

For the past several years, Swanson has imparted his knowledge and experience to the next generation of EMS workers as an instructor for the Hall EMT Academy.  His teaching skills were recently showcased when 13 of 15 students passed the National Registry exam on their first attempt.

A graduate of the Hall EMT Academy, Krystal Barboza found her niche in connecting with and educating the community about the importance of emergency medical services.  As community outreach coordinator, Barboza is credited with helping to revitalize Hall Ambulance’s participation in community events, which had come to a halt due to the severe restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic.  She has also reestablished relationships with outreach peers of local public safety organizations.   So far this year, Barboza has participated in 71 events with 15 more scheduled through the end of the year.

American Ambulance Association President Randy Strozyk noted that, “EMS professionals work around-the-clock to deliver out-of-hospital care when it is needed most.” He continued, “We honor this year’s Stars of Life and thank them for their tireless service to local communities across the nation.”