2024 EMT awards and recognition

Submitted by the San Juan County Public Hospital District #1

Each year we celebrate staff and volunteers for their contributions to our agency and the community. Two EMTs were singled out for their exceptional service: Sam Shayler and Lucas Mirabella.

Volunteer EMT Sam Shayler was given the EMT of the Year award for 2024. Importantly, Sam was selected by a vote of his peers for this award. He was recognized for his hard work, dedication, competence, and good cheer.

Sam takes the boat from Waldron Island to volunteer with us, and in addition to responding on many calls, also helps his own community on Waldron Island. Most recently he’s been going out with our outreach team to learn more about non-emergent preventative efforts.

It is our privilege to select Lucas Mirabella for the Chief’s Award in 2024. During his outstanding service as a volunteer with San Juan Island EMS he has responded to many emergency calls, demonstrating a high degree of professionalism, exceptional attitude, and commitment to service in this community. The award was presented in a January 2025 ceremony.

Assistant Chief T. J. Bishop added, “I have a passion for supporting fellow veterans, and it’s great to be able to see Lucas’s progress in his civilian life as a first responder. I’ve given him the nickname of ‘clutch,’ since he also fills vacant shifts at the last minute when needed.”

Other EMTs had significant milestones as well. Longtime EMT and former Fire Chief Brad Creesy was recognized for 30 years of service. Brad has received many awards in his time here, including the EMT Of the Year award multiple times. He fills shifts every week and comes when needed on calls throughout the week.

Staff member Margaret Longley was recognized for twenty years of service. Seventeen of those years were as a volunteer EMT.

Chief Nathan Butler said, “We’re only as strong as the people we have – and we have amazing people. I’m so grateful for their dedication and professionalism. They’re also a ton of fun. We’re all so fortunate to have this team of first responders serving this community.”

San Juan County Public Hospital District #1 operates San Juan Island EMS, the only transport and Advanced Life Support EMS provider on San Juan Island. It also owns and operates Village at the Harbor and Village at Home. The District pays a large subsidy to support clinic and hospital services at Peace Health Peace Island Medical Center, Mt. Baker Planned Parenthood, Joyce L. Sobel Family Resource Center, and the Prevention Coalition.