Longtime paramedic John Goddard was honored Thursday as the Pennsylvania 2024 Advanced Life Support Practioner of the Year for a lifetime of dedication and service.

Goddard has been a first responder for 28 years and is currently a paramedic with Riddle Emergency Medical Services, according to an article in the Daily Times.

The award is given by the Pennsylvania Department of Health and Pennsylvania Emergency Health Services Council.

He’s working now as a prehospital paramedic, delivering care to patients during the most critical moments before they get to the hospital, and has demonstrated top-level leadership as an operations supervisor.

He also has served as a flight paramedic, providing advanced care to patients in need of rapid helicopter transport to a tertiary hospital, and as an educator, working to mold the next generation of EMS professionals.

“John epitomizes the qualities of an exceptional paramedic: professionalism, compassion, expertise and leadership,” said Robert P. Girardeau, system director, Prehospital Services at Main Line Health.

“John’s composed demeanor and astute decision-making amid adversity have preserved numerous lives throughout his illustrious career,” said Girardeau.

Jack Lynch, president and CEO of Main Line Health, and Shelly Buck, president of Riddle Hospital, were among those at Riddle Hospital Thursday honoring Goddard.

Representatives from the federal, state and county levels also came to recognize Goddard’s achievements.

Attending were U.S. Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, 5th Congressional District; state Sen. Tim Kearney, 26th Senatorial District; state Rep. Lisa A. Borowski, 168th Legislative District; state Rep. David Delloso, 162nd Legislative District; state Rep. Jennifer O’Mara, 165th Legislative District; and Dr. Monica Taylor, chair of Delaware County Council.

Read more about Riddle EMS Paramedic John Goddard n the Daily Times.