West Hartford Paramedic Honored For Response To Cardiac Emergency

WEST HARTFORD, CT — A local paramedic's life-saving response to a cardiac emergency has recently garnered him a prestigious honor from a Hartford-based hospital.

West Hartford firefighter paramedic David Holmes has been named a recipient of Saint Francis Hospital’s 2026 EMS Champion Award in recognition of his emergency medical care and leadership during a cardiac arrest response, according to West Hartford Fire Fighters Local 1241.

The union said Holmes was honored for his ongoing commitment to patient care and his actions during a recent emergency call involving a patient suffering cardiac arrest.

According to Local 1241, Holmes led resuscitation efforts that included high-quality CPR, advanced airway management, and advanced life support treatment.

After restoring the patient’s pulse, Holmes performed and interpreted a 12-lead electrocardiogram that identified a severe heart attack known as a STEMI, or ST-segment myocardial infarction.

The union said Holmes then activated Saint Francis Hospital’s cardiac catheterization laboratory directly from the field to speed up specialized treatment before the patient arrived at the hospital.

Officials said the patient ultimately recovered and was discharged neurologically intact.

Local 1241 credited Holmes and the coordinated efforts of emergency responders and hospital staff for the successful outcome.

The union said Holmes’ recognition reflects his “professionalism, clinical excellence, and dedication to serving the residents and guests of West Hartford.”