For over 27 years, Braun Industries has been partnering with EMS World and the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT) in the National EMS Awards Excellence Program. Each year, NAEMT collaborates with other national EMS organizations to recognize outstanding achievements and contributions in EMS. The awards are announced at the EMS World Expo/NAEMT Annual Meeting. Award recipients receive a monetary award, three core program registrations, and $1000 for travel and lodging at the event.

This year, the EMS World Expo was held October 31st through November 2nd in New Orleans, LA. Braun Industries was proud to once again sponsor the NAEMT EMT of the Year award. This award recognizes an emergency medical technician who demonstrates excellence in the performance of emergency medical services, with their primary role being that of prehospital patient care. Each nominee for the award was judged on how he/she:

• provides superior patient care;
• is an effective advocate for patients and their families;
• works with peers to foster a positive work environment;
• demonstrates professionalism in interacting with patients, their families and other medical professionals; and
• demonstrates a commitment to continuing professional education. 

Taking home the prestigious title of 2012 EMT of the Year was Dean Darling. Dean is an EMT-I with Sauk Prairie Ambulance Association in Sauk City, WI. He has been serving with the organization since 1982. He is currently the training director for the association, educating many EMTs and earning a reputation as a highly respected professional for his knowledge on patient care. 

Dean was nominated for the award by his coworker, Joe Welsch. Joe told the story that Dean once responded to a pager call while off duty, and saved a pulseless, non-breathing man's life by starting CPR quickly before the ambulance could arrive. The man he saved was Joe's father... and Dean was the reason Joe became an EMT. The story is a prime example of Dean's passion and commitment to his profession.

Here are some other stories and thoughts about Dean's impact as an EMT.

"Many nights and weekends you can find Dean helping new and veteran EMTs reviewing skills or teaching new procedures. He is a great teacher, mentor, and role model for all of us; his skills as an EMT are unsurpassed and respected by all," says Kevin Weber, his director at Sauk Prairie Ambulance.

"Dean has worked well above and beyond expectations as a volunteer to keep SPAA a quality service. He has incorporated a number of techniques that give SPAA the ability to deal with more serious traumas as well as routine EMS services," says James Anderson, Village President of Sauk City.

"I have never met and probably will never meet a person who is as dedicated and giving of his life and who puts his whole heart into EMS as Dean Darling. I would trust my life to him," says Kevin Weber.

To read more about Dean's accomplishments and legacy as an EMT, check out his complete bio on the NAEMT website.

It was our pleasure to present Dean with his award. We congratulate him, but more importantly thank him for his service and dedication to the EMS industry!