WIND LAKE — The Wisconsin EMS Association (WEMSA) recently announced the recipients of the 2023 EMS Excellence in Service Awards. The awards will be presented during the Wisconsin EMS Association’s Conference and Expo on Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024 at the Resch Expo in Green Bay.
“I am deeply inspired by our honorees. Their extraordinary dedication and resilience highlight their capacity to surpass the demands of their roles,” said Tony Lash, NREMT-P, President of the WEMSA Board of Directors.
Among those honored is John Frydenlund, Albany Area EMS, who was given the 2023 WEMSA Lifetime Achievement.
Frydenlund has been a loyal member of Albany Area EMS since its inception in 1975. With a remarkable career spanning nearly 50 years, John’s unwavering dedication and commitment to the field of emergency medical services (EMS) exemplifies the very essence of EMS in small-town communities.
Frydenlund’s journey with Albany Area EMS began in its early days, and he has remained an active and integral member ever since. His commitment goes beyond the call of duty, with John regularly dedicating over 150 hours each month to on-call responsibilities, training sessions, and community events, as well as annual attendance at the WEMSA conference.
Having witnessed the evolution of EMS over the decades, John has embraced change with enthusiasm, often saying, “I am old, and old dogs can learn new tricks.” He takes great joy in welcoming newcomers, or as he affectionately calls them, “the new kids,” into the service. John serves as a mentor, answering questions, providing guidance, and offering support during challenging calls. He is a dedicated advocate for new EMTs and goes to great lengths to ensure their success.
Frydenlund embodies the spirit of EMS through representing selflessness, community care, and a positive attitude. He may not speak loudly, but his words hold great value, and his sense of humor brings light to every situation. With almost 50 years of outstanding service, Frydenlund shows no intention of slowing down and continues to dedicate his life to Albany Area EMS.
The Lifetime Achievement Award bestowed upon Frydenlund by WEMSA acknowledges his unparalleled contributions to the EMS community and celebrates his remarkable journey of service spanning nearly half a century.
“In an era where the spotlight on Emergency Services is more crucial than ever, we are thrilled to honor our award recipients. Their unwavering commitment and exceptional service exemplify their ability to exceed expectations and persevere through challenges. And this is a challenging time for EMS,” said Alan DeYoung, Executive Director of WEMSA.
The full list of recipients honored this year will be:
● EMR of the Year: Bobbie Vossekuil, Waupun Fire & Rescue
● EMS Educator of the Year: Susan Blaedow, Lake Country Fire & Rescue and WCTC, Delafield
● EMS Support Person of the Year: Patrick Ahlgrim, Oconto Falls Area Ambulance Service
● EMS Service of the Year: Oconto Falls Area Ambulance Service
● EMT of the Year: Laura Palmer, Antigo Fire & EMS and White Lake Fire Department
● Paramedic of the Year: Jon Frank, City of Madison Fire Department, Sun Prairie
● WEMSA Lifetime Achievement Award: John Frydenlund, Albany Area EMS