[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 86 (Wednesday, May 21, 2025)]
[House]
[Pages H2206-H2207]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     RECOGNIZING NATIONAL EMS WEEK

  (Mr. Thompson of Pennsylvania was recognized to address the House for 
5 minutes.)
  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.

[[Page H2207]]

  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.

                          ____________________