Honolulu paramedics, EMTs promoted during National EMS Week

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Two days before she was promoted, off-duty Honolulu Emergency Medical Services unit supervisor Joanna Tumbaga jumped into action while playing flag football.

Read more Family of fallen Maui soldier finds healing through lantern floating

On Saturday, Tumbaga performed CPR on a fellow player who suffered cardiac arrest on the field. Her quick thinking, along with responses from fire and EMS crews, helped save the player’s life.

Tumbaga was one of 10 EMS personnel promoted Monday at Mission Memorial Auditorium.

Honolulu Emergency Services director Jim Ireland said, “To them, it’s not heroic. To them, it’s what they signed up for. It’s what they’re trained to do.

“They never ask for the spotlight, but yet they show up every day, do their jobs, and do them exceptionally well,” he said.

Read more Hawaiian Airlines unveils new fleet of electric equipment at Honolulu airport

The ceremony was held at the start of National Emergency Medical Services Week, a nationwide recognition of EMS professionals and the critical care they provide to the community.

According to Honolulu EMS, crews responded to more than 110,000 calls last year. Paramedics and EMTs respond to an average of 15 calls per 12-hour shift.

“EMS is an incredibly demanding profession, and advancing into leadership roles reflects true grit, professionalism, and dedication,” said city deputy managing director Krishna Jayaram. “It is an honor to congratulate these men and women on their achievements.”

During the ceremony, seven paramedics were promoted to unit supervisor positions, two paramedics were promoted to district chief positions, and one EMT was promoted to dispatch supervisor.

Read more Girl Scouts seek volunteers, donations for 13th annual Lei of Aloha event

District Chiefs

Unit Supervisors

Dispatch Supervisor