Recently, the Florida Department of Health named Leon County’s Lee Kendall the Florida EMT of the Year. Lee Kendall has been part of the Leon County EMS (LCEMS) team since 2017 and is actively involved in community education events, and risk reduction programs such as Press the Chest, as well as other numerous special operation events.
“Since 2017, Leon County has trained nearly 7,200 citizens in CPR and AED usage thanks to dedicated EMTs like Lee Kendall,” said Leon County Commission Chairman County Rick Minor. “This statewide award recognizes outstanding EMS team members for not only responding to crises, but also for their leadership in long-term initiatives to make their community safer and more prepared.”
For over 25 years, the FDOH EMS awards have recognized those who serve during times of crisis, such as paramedics, 911 telecommunicators and EMTs, to pay tribute to these lifesaving departments and their hard-working staff. The EMT of the Year Award is given to EMTs who directly serve patients and have gone above and beyond the call of duty in the following areas: quality assurance/improvement, patient care, medical control, disaster preparedness, or public education and/or training.
“Throughout the pandemic, EMS staff have responded to more than 13,000 COVID-19 response calls, alone, while also maintaining their dedication to ensuring our community is CPR-trained, among other life-saving initiatives,” said Leon County Administrator Vincent S. Long. “We are always honored to see our staff recognized for the incredible work we know they are doing each and every day.”
Lee is also a member of the Peer Support team and coordinates fundraising efforts for LCEMS. The Peer Support team is made up of employees trained to provide support for their colleagues as well as provide a safe environment to listen to concerns, struggles from the job and other topics the employee wants to discuss.
“Lee is an integral member of our team and serves as an exemplary EMT, colleague and friend,” said Leon County EMS Director Chief Chad Abrams. “He is truly motivated by the desire to educate our community on ways to be prepared for medical emergencies and to help those in need when they call.”
Lee is currently involved in the LCEMS Professional Development Program and is studying to further his career as a paramedic. The program helps members progress through seven levels of education, training, and experience to advance from an entry level EMT to a Charge Paramedic.
Finally, Leon County EMT Randy Williams was also recognized during the EMS Memorial portion of the awards ceremony. Randy was an EMS team member who passed away in August due to complications from COVID-19. A memorial service was held on August 25, 2021 and was attended by local first responders and the Williams family.
For more information, contact or Mathieu Cavell, Leon County Community and Media Relations at (850) 606-5300 or CMR@LeonCountyFL.gov .
About Leon County EMS
Launched in December 2003, Leon County Emergency Medical Services (EMS), a department of Leon County Government, has provided the highest quality emergency care available and continues to enhance this vital community service. Nationally accredited and recognized by the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services and the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians, EMS provides clinically superior, cost-effective emergency medical services and transport to the citizens and visitors of Leon County. Stay up to date with all things EMS by liking or following EMS on Facebook.