BETHEL — Bethel Rescue’s David Hanscom and Mary Buckman received prestigious state-level recognition during Maine Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week, celebrated in late May.

David Hanscom, Department Chief, and with Bethel Rescue for 32 years, was honored with the EMS Excellence Award. The award is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to EMS at the regional or state level. Hanscom was recognized for his leadership and dedication to areas such as system development, public education, administration, and quality improvement.

Mary Buckman received the EMS Lifetime Achievement Award for more than four decades of service. Buckman has been an active member of Bethel Ambulance Service for over 45 years, providing advanced care as an AEMT and serving as the department’s Treasurer for several decades. The award recognizes sustained, exceptional service and commitment to patient care, system development, and community involvement.

EMS Week began locally with a strong turnout at Bethel Rescue’s ambulance station. The day included hands-on training on childbirth calls, an informational session led by Chris Hayward of Mahoosuc Mountain Search & Rescue, followed by a crew cookout and meeting.

Later in the week, a statewide EMS memorial and awards ceremony was held in Augusta. Adaline Koskela, a member of Bethel Rescue and a Telstar High School Class of 2025 graduate, was invited to speak at the memorial. She shared her experiences in the Maine EMS ConnectMe (Explorers) program and offered thoughts on the future of EMS in Maine.

Hanscom and Buckman received their awards during the formal ceremony that followed. Out of more than 5,000 EMS providers across the state, only 20 individuals and two organizations were honored this year.

Attending the event along with Hanscom, Buckman, and Koskela were Assistant Deputy Chief Amy Hanscom, Driver Emily Black, Secretary Kim Wentworth, Paramedic Melissa Adams, and family members of both award recipients.

EMS Week concluded with the Hometown Heroes Ceremony at the Portland Sea Dogs game on Saturday, May 24. Bethel Rescue members David Hanscom, Amy Hanscom, and Melissa Adams were among the 27 individuals recognized for outstanding service in EMS, fire, police, and dispatch.

Also attending the Sea Dogs event were Bethel Rescue members Randall Grondin and Andy Whitney.

In other news, Bethel Rescue was awarded a $15,000 sustainability grant from Maine EMS, supporting continued operations and community service.