Local Heroes Honored by Sedgwick County

Sedgwick County’s EMS employee association held its annual employee awards banquet on Friday, November 3. The event recognized individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Sedgwick County EMS and its mission to provide exceptional pre-hospital healthcare to citizens.

Paramedic Team of the Year - Captain Brian Falco, Major Kevin Lanterman, Captain Cole Mitchell, and Medic Amber Wharton were honored for their response and care of critically injured Wichita Police Officer Brian Arterburn in February. Arterburn’s mother, Mary, attended the event and thanked the team for their care and service.

Lt. Bryon Johnson First Responder Award - Sedgwick County Sheriff Deputy Noah Stephens-Clark was honored for his quick-thinking actions that most likely saved the life of the victim, Mr. Cortney Holloway, at the Department of Revenue shooting in September. Holloway presented the award to Deputy Stephens-Clark.

Citizen Hero Award - Ryan Anderson, a local resident, was honored for his actions at an apartment fire last July. Anderson ran into a burning apartment and saved a small child from the blaze. He suffered minor burns from the fire. The child’s family presented Anderson with the award and thanked him for his heroism.

ER Staff Person of the Year - Daytha Willson, RN, was recognized for her exceptional concern for EMS employees in her position as ER Charge Nurse at Via Christi. She has advocated for EMS inclusion in the Nurse and Healthcare Worker Protection Act which provides protections for all types of healthcare workers who are assaulted by patients.

Rookie of the Year - Paramedic David Lingg was honored as the most promising new hire at Sedgwick County EMS. He was nominated for his exceptional initiative, outstanding positive attitude, and work with paramedic students.

Director’s Award – Captain Greg Gering, a 25 year veteran of Sedgwick County EMS, was honored for his vision and years of work in establishing an EMS Employee Association and honor guard.