STATE OF NEW YORK 
EXECUTIVE CHAMBER 
Proclamation

---

Whereas, New Yorkers recognize that a well-organized system of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) is a vital public entity that serves as a safety net for our health care system, and we appreciate the dedicated members of EMS teams who are ready to provide lifesaving care to those in need – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; and

Whereas, New Yorkers realize that the highest level of humanitarian concern and commitment is at the heart of the exceptional work performed daily by the men and women of EMS teams in communities throughout our State; and

Whereas, during times of emergency, such access to quality care dramatically improves the survival and recovery rate of those who experience sudden illness or injury; and

Whereas, over the years, EMS has become a highly effective system of first response for victims, as it serves to coordinate public and private agencies, along with many volunteers, for the provision of urgent medical care; and

Whereas, EMS teams include emergency physicians, emergency nurses, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, firefighters, educators, administrators, various other professionals, as well as volunteers who generously donate their time, energy and expertise; and

Whereas, the members of Emergency Medical Services teams, whether career or volunteer, undergo thousands of hours of specialized training and continuing education to enhance their lifesaving skills and to maintain optimum standards of medical treatment and urgent care; and

Whereas, New York State has established a solid foundation upon which a highly efficient Emergency Medical Services system operates and during this weeklong observance it is appropriate for each and every citizen to recognize the vigilance, selflessness, and invaluable work carried out by EMS providers in communities across this great State by extending our sincere gratitude to all members of this critical area of public service;

Now, Therefore, I, David A. Paterson, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby recognize May 18-24, 2008 as EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES WEEK in the Empire State.

G i v e n under my hand and the Privy Seal of the State at the Capitol in the City of Albany this firdt day of May in the year two thousand eight.