LIVES LOST LIVE ON
Commonwealth Health EMS unveils “Fallen Hero” ambulance
A special tribute honoring those whose
lives were lost in the line of service to
others is now making the rounds on the
region’s roadways.
Commonwealth Health Emergency
Medical Services (EMS) recently unveiled
its “Fallen Hero” ambulance, which pays
tribute to members of the emergency
services and military communities
who sacrifi ced their lives in the line of
duty. The ambulance’s passenger side
contains the names of members of the
emergency services, law enforcement,
fi re service and towing communities who
were lost, while the driver’s side pays
tribute to those who lost their lives while
serving in the military.
Designed by Jason Saar, the ambulance’s
graphics represent all branches of the
armed service, while the hood pays
tribute to all those lost during the
terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.
The rear of the ambulance pays tribute
to two emergency medical technicians
who lost their battle to depression after
suffering from mental illness.
6 • The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce
“We have always had a great sense
of honor for those who have made
the ultimate sacrifi ce for others,” said
Joseph Moran, director of operations,
Commonwealth Health Emergency
Medical Services. “We felt that this type
of memorial would honor all personnel
from these different service lines. Even
though we perform different tasks and
take different risks, we all have the
same purpose in the end.”
“It takes a strong
person who is willing
to give their life to
help others in their
time of need.”
“We understand the pain and grief that
comes with a tragic loss,” he continued.
“We wanted to change that feeling into
something that can be positive and
bring awareness for these fallen heroes.
We want to keep their legacy alive.”
Mr. Moran explained that painstaking
research was undertaken to be sure that
spelling and details were correct for all
names listed on the ambulance, and that
it honored as many lives as possible. In
fact, several names were added to the
ambulance after the unveiling.
“Not everyone is cut out for the work
that these heroes perform every day,” Mr.
Moran said. “It takes a strong person who
is willing to give their life to help others
in their time of need. It is all too often
that we forget these heroes will someday
need someone to help them along and
return that favor. They forfeit a lot to
ensure they can help others. We can’t
ignore what they have done for us and
need to embrace the effect these heroes
have had on our society.”
Commonwealth Health EMS is now
working on another vehicle that will focus
on one of its various facilities and there
are future plans for additional special
ambulances celebrating the community.
FOR MORE INFORMATION,
VISIT WWW.CWHEMS.NET