Falck Professionals Honored at California Ambulance Association’s 2026 Stars of Life Celebration

Source: Falck

SACRAMENTO, CA—Falck, a provider of emergency services and healthcare, is proud to announce that six of its team members were recognized at the California Ambulance Association (CAA) 2026 Stars of Life Celebration. The signature event, held in Sacramento on March 4, 2026, honors the exceptional courage, skill, and dedication of EMS professionals across California.

This year, Falck honorees from Orange County, Alameda County, San Diego County, and Los Angeles County were celebrated for their outstanding contributions to patient care, community service, and clinical excellence.

Honorees

Jaime Flores, EMT/FTO – Orange County

Falck Orange County EMT and Field Training Officer Jaime Flores, Jr. was honored with the CAA Star of Life Award for his exemplary commitment to community outreach and education. Flores has made a lasting impact by empowering community members with lifesaving knowledge across critical topics, including CPR, First Aid, Stop the Bleed, Narcan administration, and the recognition of medical emergencies.

“What truly sets Jaime apart is his ability to deliver these essential trainings in Spanish, ensuring that language is never a barrier to safety, preparedness, or care,” said Vishal Raj, managing director of Falck’s Orange County operation. “Jaime has significantly expanded the reach and effectiveness of community education, strengthening trust and resilience within the communities he serves.” A respected leader within the Training Department, Flores plays a vital role in shaping the next generation of EMS providers, leading with compassion, empathy, and professionalism.

Julie Silva, Paramedic – Alameda County

With a distinguished 40-year career in EMS, paramedic Julie Silva is a highly respected provider dedicated to serving the residents of Alameda County. A pillar of the local EMS community, she is a dedicated mentor who has guided the careers of many paramedics and EMTs.

Silva’s dedication extends beyond her daily duties, as she has also been recognized for her efforts during deployments to major disasters, including Hurricane Katrina, Hurricane Rita, and the North Bay Fires. “As a valued member of the Falck team, Julie exemplifies the culture of care and commitment to excellence,” said David Torres, managing director of Falck’s Alameda County operation.

James Beatty, Paramedic – Alameda County

With a career spanning over four decades, James Beatty is a distinguished EMS professional with a vast background in prehospital care, instruction, and specialized rescue operations. Since 1990, Beatty has been a dedicated paramedic and preceptor in Alameda County. He is also a founding member of the Honor Guard, which earned the Winning Behaviors Award in 2023.

“Throughout his career, James has been consistently recognized for excellence and bravery,” said Torres. “This includes commendations for his response to the Ace Train Derailment in 1996, Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and his work at Falck’s COVID-19 vaccination sites in 2020, in addition to numerous accolades for high-profile calls and cardiac arrest saves.”

Axel Jimenez, EMT – San Diego County

EMT Axel Jimenez was recognized for his selfless actions after stopping while off-duty to provide aid at a serious motorcycle accident involving multiple patients, including one who was pregnant. He assisted with patient care, remained on scene to support the responding crews, and offered to continue assisting with transport.

“Axel’s decision to stop and provide critical aid while off-duty is a true testament to his character and dedication,” said John Goward, managing director of Falck’s San Diego operation. “He acted without hesitation in a high-stakes situation, demonstrating a level of selflessness that we are incredibly proud of. His actions embody the core of what it means to be a caregiver, and he is highly deserving of this Star of Life recognition.”

EMT Valeria Gervacio-Hernandez and EMT Emma Fontes – Los Angeles County

On New Year’s Day 2026, EMT Valeria Gervacio-Hernandez and EMT Emma Fontes demonstrated exceptional professionalism and clinical excellence while responding to a critically injured patient. Arriving first to a chaotic and high-risk scene, they immediately initiated decisive, life-saving care to control significant bleeding and stabilize the patient. Their early interventions and seamless collaboration with the Fire Department were instrumental in the patient’s successful transport to a local trauma center.

“EMT Gervacio-Hernandez and EMT Fontes exemplify the highest standards of emergency medical services, courage under pressure, clinical competence, and unwavering commitment to patient care,” said Lyle Hanson, managing director of Falck’s Los Angeles County operation. “Their actions on New Year’s Day set a powerful tone for 2026 and reflect great credit upon themselves, their colleagues, and Falck.”

About Falck

For more than a century, Falck has delivered healthcare and emergency services that save and improve people’s lives. Every day, our 25,000 skilled professionals turn care into action across 25 countries—building a foundation for healthier and more resilient societies. For more information, visit falck.us.