The Lombard Fire Department has been named First Runner-Up for the prestigious Hartmann Award, presented annually by Good Samaritan Hospital to recognize excellence in emergency medical care within the Good Samaritan EMS System.
The Hartmann Award, named in honor of Dr. Joseph Hartmann, the hospital’s first medical director of emergency medical services, celebrates departments and individuals who demonstrate outstanding clinical skill and dedication in the field of prehospital care.
The Lombard Fire Department received this recognition following a critical emergency call involving a 17-year-old male patient experiencing a severe asthma attack, which had progressed to loss of consciousness and inadequate breathing. Responding paramedics from Lombard implemented multiple advanced life support (ALS) interventions, including the administration of critical medications and the performance of endotracheal intubation—a life-saving procedure that secures a patient’s airway for mechanical ventilation.
Thanks to the decisive actions and clinical expertise of the paramedics, the patient’s condition was stabilized, resulting in a positive outcome.
“This award is a reflection of the training, professionalism and dedication our members demonstrate every day,” said Deputy Fire Chief Gac. “We are proud to serve our community with the highest standards of emergency medical care.”
The Lombard Fire Department remains committed to excellence in EMS and is honored to be recognized among the top emergency providers in the region.

Pictured from left to right: Chief Rick Sander, Dr. Valerie Phillips, FF/PM Steve Kemnetz, FF/PM Ryan Carlson, FF/PM Jeremy White, Dr. Tom Grudowski, and Hospital EMS Coordinator Frank Kolsky. Not pictured: FF/PM Sebastien Gonzalez and Lt Gabe Suto.