Bakersfield paramedic's 50-year career honored at California EMS Awards

Bakersfield's Ed Smith was among 43 emergency medical services workers honored for their heroic acts and extraordinary contributions on May 23 at the State EMS Authority's California EMS Awards. The event took place at The Mayne Events Center in Bellflower.

Smith, who retired last October after 50 years of service to Hall Ambulance, will receive the EMS Cross-the highest award conferred in the absence of extreme conditions and extraordinary circumstances. This medal recognizes a uniformed EMT who, by act and deed, represents the most outstanding achievement or accomplishment in EMS over an extended time.

Smith joined Hall Ambulance on May 5, 1972, after listening to Hall Ambulance Founder Harvey L. Hall give a presentation during a Bakersfield College advanced first aid class. He became an EMT in 1973 and distinguished himself as Kern County's 3rd paramedic in 1975.

He is one of a few remaining employees who had the opportunity to work alongside Hall on the old Cadillac ambulances in the Company's early days.

During his career, Smith also served as a Paramedic Field Supervisor for Hall Ambulance's West Kern Operations Area. For the past 20 years, he was responsible for coordinating, troubleshooting and repairing the Company's complex radio system, emergency vehicle monitoring safety equipment and other electronic devices.

Smith is a gentleman in the truest sense of the word who epitomized Hall's ideals of care, compassion and community. His dedication to Hall Ambulance Service and the citizens of Kern County is unparalleled.