🚑 Wrapping Up EMS Week 2026 With a Great Announcement!

Stafford Volunteer Fire Department is proud to congratulate our Assistant Rescue Chief, Mike Hertel, on being officially released as a full-fledged Paramedic!

Earning the certification is a major accomplishment, but becoming fully released to practice is another critical step. After certification, every EMT and Paramedic must complete a release process with our Operational Medical Director, demonstrating their knowledge, skills, judgment, and readiness to provide patient care under the OMD’s medical license.

That relationship between provider and physician is built on trust, professionalism, accountability, and a shared commitment to doing what is best for the patient. It is one of the most important foundations of emergency medical care.

Chief Hertel’s dedication, hard work, and continued service to our community are a true reflection of what EMS Week is all about.

Please join us in congratulating Paramedic Mike Hertel on this outstanding achievement!

Dedicated 2 Excellence