Heroes of the Eaton Fire: California EMS Professionals Recognized With Star of Life Award
In January 2025, when the devastating Eaton Fire ravaged Southern California, EMS professionals from Falck Mobile Health and AmbuServe Inc. (along with other Southern California EMS and fire services) displayed extraordinary courage, selflessness, and leadership. These individuals responded without hesitation to provide life-saving care and support, and their actions earned them the prestigious Star of Life award from the California Ambulance Association.
Their stories highlight the essence of service and commitment in the face of crisis.
Corey Martin, a critical care paramedic and chief administrative officer at AmbuServe Ambulance, displayed exceptional leadership and expertise throughout the Eaton Fire evacuation process. After a full day of work, Martin received an urgent call from Pasadena requesting assistance with evacuating a skilled nursing facility and an adjacent assisted living center that were directly in the path of the fire. Drawing from nearly three decades of experience, Martin quickly mobilized resources, coordinated an emergency meeting with the management team and dispatch, and recalled all available personnel. Within just 52 minutes, 25 units were on site, actively evacuating 262 residents to safety. Martin’s leadership didn’t end there; once the evacuation was complete, he quickly shifted his attention to other fires, including the Palisades Fire and another in Crescenta Valley. By the end of the week, his team had completed 647 patient movements, marking an unprecedented effort. Martin’s ability to manage such high-pressure situations while keeping his team focused and motivated was vital to ensuring the safety of hundreds of patients.
Chris Brito, an EMT and field training officer with Falck Mobile Health, immediately volunteered his services when the fire broke out. With extensive training in pre-hospital care, Brito worked alongside firefighters, paramedics, and other first responders to treat victims of the fire. His calm under pressure allowed him to handle various medical emergencies, from smoke inhalation to burns, while also assisting in evacuations and providing reassurance to distressed families. Brito's selflessness and expertise played a critical role in ensuring that victims received the care they needed, helping the community maintain its strength during this challenging time.
Alex Campos, another EMT and field training officer at Falck Mobile Health, was quick to step in alongside his colleague when the call for help went out. Campos’ background in pre-hospital care and his deep commitment to public safety enabled him to provide critical medical assistance throughout the disaster. From treating burn victims and those suffering from smoke inhalation to helping evacuate those in harm’s way, Campos’ steady presence was a source of comfort for families in distress. His willingness to volunteer during such dangerous conditions was a powerful example of the courage and compassion that define the best in emergency medical services.
Basheer Khatib, an EMT and Field Training Officer at AmbuServe Ambulance, exemplified leadership when he was called to assist in the fire zone. Known for his exceptional leadership and high standards across Orange County, Khatib responded immediately to the first request for help, joining the response efforts on the evening of January 7. Without hesitation, he entered the fire zone to assist with the evacuation of medically sensitive individuals who were trapped. His quick thinking and decisive actions helped ensure that many vulnerable citizens were safely evacuated from the danger. Khatib’s calm in the face of adversity and his willingness to dive directly into the heart of the disaster helped save lives and support the overall evacuation efforts.
Matthew Perez, the training division manager at AmbuServe Ambulance, also stepped forward when the call for help came in. On the night of January 7, as the Eaton Fire spread, Perez received a frantic request from a nursing facility in immediate danger. Without hesitation, he donned his uniform and rushed to the scene. Entering a burning facility, he worked to evacuate patients and move them to safety. His leadership brought calm to the chaotic situation, reassuring both staff and patients in the face of overwhelming circumstances. Perez’s ability to guide responders and facility staff during this crisis was instrumental in ensuring the safe evacuation of many vulnerable individuals.
The heroism, quick thinking, and immediate action displayed by Chris Brito, Alex Campos, Basheer Khatib, Corey Martin, Matthew Perez, and others during the 2025 Eaton Fire exemplify the highest standards of emergency medical service. Their willingness to volunteer, lead under pressure, and remain unwaveringly committed to their communities during this crisis are a testament to their professionalism and dedication. In the face of extreme danger, these EMS professionals not only saved lives but also played a critical role in ensuring the community’s resilience and recovery. Their selfless actions continue to inspire and serve as a reminder of the critical role that California's ambulance services play in times of crisis. These teams have repeatedly proven their ability to mobilize swiftly and effectively during natural disasters, putting the needs of patients and the community first, and demonstrating that when it comes to protecting and serving the public, nothing stands in the way of their determination and compassion.
About the California Ambulance Association
Representing Health Care's Front-Line Providers—Founded in 1948, the California Ambulance Association (CAA) represents the interests of emergency and nonemergency ambulance service providers serving nearly every county of the state of California.
As healthcare’s first responders, the association is dedicated to assuring the delivery of excellent pre-hospital care to the people of California by promoting recognized industry best practices.
