05/20/2026
This week, the Gloucester County Hero Scholarship Fund proudly recognizes EMS Week and honors the EMTs and Paramedics who answer the call every hour of every day.
Established in 1974 by President Gerald Ford, EMS Week was created to celebrate the vital role Emergency Medical Services professionals play in protecting the health and safety of our communities. Since then, generations of EMS providers have stood on the front lines of emergencies, tragedies, disasters, and everyday moments where seconds matter most.
Behind every siren is a person carrying an incredible responsibility. EMS professionals face long hours, missed holidays, emotional exhaustion, dangerous scenes, and the weight of life-and-death decisions — often with little recognition. They comfort families on their worst days, bring calm to chaos, and continue showing up despite the physical and emotional toll the job demands.
Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, motor vehicle crash, overdose, fire scene, or simply holding someone’s hand in a moment of fear, EMTs and Paramedics embody selfless service in its purest form.
To all EMS providers throughout Gloucester County and beyond: thank you for your compassion, courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to others. Your work matters more than words can adequately express.
“The EMS professional does not go to work to be thanked or recognized — they go because someone, somewhere, is having the worst day of their life and needs help.”