MEMSA Awards

Star of Life

They are the unsung heroes who risk their lives everyday to save ours. They are the Montana men and women who deliver life-saving emergency care. And now, for the first time, they are being honored for their heroism and dedication.

On Thursday, February 5 at 11:30 a.m., the Montana Emergency Medical Services Association (MEMSA) will recognize outstanding physicians, paramedics and emergency medical technicians who have been chosen by their communities for their care and commitment.

The MEMSA’s “Stars of Life” will be honored at a special luncheon at the Colonial Red Lion Hotel in Helena.

This year's honorees are Mary Ann Schladweiler, basic EMT from Rygate, Golden Valley; Jeremey Virts, EMT Paramedic from Great Falls' Emergency Services; Floyd Peterson, EMT First Responder from Cut Bank, Glacier County; and Jim Upchurch, MD from Hardin, Big Horn County.

“We want to recognize these excellent men and women in the emergency field for their outstanding contributions to the Montana communities they serve,” said MEMSA President, Justin Grohs.

This is the first year for the Montana Stars of Life. It is modeled after the American Ambulance Association’s Star of Life recognition program, which honors emergency medical services personnel from around the country at a special ceremony in Washington, D.C. every year.

Jeremy Virts receiving the Star of Life award from the Lt. Gov.