Ronald Reagan

“ We can all be extremely proud of and grateful for those who staff our Nation's emergency medical services (EMS) . They make a tremendous difference in our land as they save lives and care for the injured and the critically ill. Dedicated physicians, nurses, paramedics, park rangers, fire fighters, law enforcement officers, and countless devoted volunteers form a system that works daily for the safety and well-being of all Americans. Many perform their tasks under severe conditions, and many risk their lives to rescue accident victims ”

“ Most of us can tell from personal experience of quick, efficient EMS teams who have saved the lives of people we know and love. Despite these many successes, however, more than 750,000 Americans continue to lose their lives from emergencies each year. ”

“ That is why EMS teams across our country strive constantly to improve their remarkable lifesaving record. They work to upgrade their training and skills, to find new methods and better equipment, and to establish nationwide standards for EMS training and the delivery of care. ”