
May 22, 2013-Former Vice President Dick Cheney served as the keynote speaker for Acadian’s annual Paramedic Luncheon.
In front of 1,500 guests this Wednesday at the Lafayette Convention Center, Cheney praised Acadian’s medics, saying, “I am delighted to be here to have the opportunity to participate in awarding the Paramedic of the Year. I think it’s a tremendous recognition; I know there is a lot of competition within a company like this because there are obviously a great many talented people who work here.”
The Paramedic Luncheon is held every year to honor Acadian’s top medic voted upon by his or her peers. Senator Fred Mills, Jr. served as master of ceremonies while Acadian’s Lead Medical Director Dr. Charles Burnell acknowledged all medics in honor of EMS week.
“This a perfect time to celebrate all of our EMTs and paramedics who heroically provide care to those in need. This year’s theme is EMS: One mission and one team.” Burnell continued, “Our partners in the EMS field all have one mission, to provide care to each and every one of you. They all deserve our recognitions and our thanks.”
Burnell presented the Paramedic of the Year Award to Paul O’Bannon. O’Bannon works as a remote paramedic for Safety Management Systems, Acadian’s industrial health, medical, security and training division. He has been with Acadian for over three years, and is assigned to one of SMS’ largest clients where he works on a 14/14 rotation.
In his acceptance speech, O’Bannon spoke of his admiration for his fellow Acadian medics. “Any medic in this room is qualified to stand right where I am at this moment. I’m simply a representative of some of the finest medics in this country.” He continued by touching on the camaraderie that exists between himself and his coworkers. “I remember exactly how I got here, friends, we teach each other. That’s one of the coolest things about our profession.” He added, “I am merely the result of people who have taught me.”
Richard Zuschlag, chairman and CEO of Acadian, concluded the event by also commending the company’s employees. “I am so proud of our medics and all of our 4,000 employee-owners. They are motivated to do what’s right for their community, their customers and their patients.”
Since 1971, Acadian has been committed to providing the highest level of emergency medical care and transportation possible. In the past decade they have expanded to include a diverse suite of services designed to offer the very best support and education in health, safety, and transportation. Acadian’s six divisions are Acadian Ambulance Service, Acadian Monitoring Services, Air Med, Executive Aircraft Charter Service, National EMS Academy and Safety Management Systems.