Paramedic Honored for 50-Year Career at CA EMSA Awards

Three men pose for a picture.
Provided photos.

Ed Smith was among 43 emergency medical services workers honored for their heroic acts and extraordinary contributions Tuesday at the State EMS Authority’s California EMS Awards in Bellflower. 

Smith, who retired last October after 50 years of service to Hall Ambulance, received the EMS Cross—the highest award conferred in the absence of extreme conditions and extraordinary circumstances. This medal recognizes a uniformed EMT who, by act and deed, represents the most outstanding achievement or accomplishment in EMS over an extended time.   

Smith joined Hall Ambulance on May 5, 1972, after listening to Hall Ambulance Founder Harvey L. Hall give a presentation during a Bakersfield College advanced first aid class. He became an EMT in 1973 and distinguished himself as Kern County’s 3rd paramedic in 1975. 

Ed Smith in an undated photo.

He is one of a few remaining employees who had the opportunity to work alongside Mr. Hall on the old Cadillac ambulances in the Company’s early days. 

During his career, Smith also served as a paramedic field supervisor for Hall Ambulance’s West Kern Operations Area. For the past 20 years, he was responsible for coordinating, troubleshooting, and repairing the Company’s complex radio system, emergency vehicle monitoring safety equipment, and other electronic devices. 

Smith is a gentleman in the truest sense of the word who epitomized Mr. Hall’s ideals of care, compassion & community. His dedication to Hall Ambulance Service and the citizens of Kern County is unparalleled. 

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