Rockland Fire/EMS recognized for growth of professionalism, dedication

Tue, 12/11/2018 - 11:30am

    ROCKLAND — “When I was just going about my regular life, getting some groceries, you are saving somebody’s life,” said Rockland City Council member Amelia Magjik. “ I can’t imagine doing what you guys do. I can’t say it without getting emotional. I just think that you are super heroes.”

    Recently, Magjik happened to witness 20-year Fire/EMS veteran Paramedic Rodney Gibbs helping a patient into an ambulance outside of the Rockland Hannaford Supermarket.

    Another day, August 29, Paramedic Abby Planeta, Firefighter/EMT William “Ben” Adams, and Lt. Brian Sullivan pulled their ambulance to the side of the road to welcome an impatient newborn into the world.

    And, for the past 25 years, now-retired Lt. Francis “Rick” Johnson has learned the elements of fire and EMS before training others in Rockland, Rockport, Vinalhaven, and beyond.

    Monday, Dec. 10, the City of Rockland recognized the five crew members for their dedication to Rockland and its residents. (Johnson was absent.)

    Councilor Valli Geiger spoke of working as an emergency room nurse at Penobscot Bay Medical Center. At times, conversation would center on the change and growth of Rockland’s responder services.

    It “became the place where we knew that if you were bringing them, they would come well cared for,” Geiger said to the Rockland Fire/EMS personnel lining the back wall during the City Council Meeting ceremony.

    “That wasn’t always true for other towns,” she said.

    Educations. Dedications. Commendations.

    “You have always led the way in terms of professionalism and training, and we thank you and we’re grateful,” Geiger said.

    Reach Sarah Thompson at news@penbaypilot.com