May We Never Forget

His last post on a social network page just a few hours before he died spoke volumes of how Esteban Bahena viewed his chosen career: "Just transported a patient off a jet plane. Love my job." In the early morning hours of April 1, 2010, Bahena and his partner happened upon an accident scene. After assessing the patients, Bahena, 24, began to place flares to warn oncoming traffic. During this process he was struck by a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed. Bahena was transported to San Diego's Mercy Hospital, where he died.

   Misty Brogdon so loved the work she often called it the "coolest job ever." Misty had other loves as well. First and foremost, her love for her son, Kenly, and stepdaughter, Kayla, trumped all else. Paramedic students she mentored spoke of her always-smiling face and her words of encouragement. On the morning of March 25, 2010, her crew was returning to base after completing a call when their helicopter crashed at approximately 6 a.m. Brogdon, 34, along with flight nurse Cindy Parker and pilot Doug Philips, were all killed in the crash.

   These are just two of the stories behind the 43 EMS memorial inductees honored at this year's National EMS Memorial Service, held June 25 in Colorado Springs, CO. To read more about this year's event, visit https://nemsms.org.

   In the meantime, please be safe and remember the families of this year's inductees in your prayers.