Born With the Desire to Serve, David Paul First Responder of the Week

Too often when we think of someone with a God given talent, it's an accomplished athlete or award winning musician. But some are born with the talent for caring, like our First Responder of the week, David Paul.

David currently is an EMT with Edward's Ambulance Service. But his talent for caring of others began at a very early age. Even as a child, David recognized those who served. When he saw someone in uniform he always thanked them for their dedication.

As a teenager he joined the United States Air Force Civil Air Patrol and trained in all aspects of search and rescue-in the air, on the radio at mission control and in the field. He studied and worked hard becoming Cadet Deputy Commander. At the same time, he enrolled as a Federal Emergency Management Agency student where he earned his certificates required to assist Homeland Security.

David volunteers his time year round working with the Central Oneida County Volunteer Ambulance Corps educating the community during events and trained with the Mercy Flight Central Ground School to learn what was needed at the scene of an emergency.

While this list of accomplishments would be a great resume for any veteran first responder, it's just the tip of the iceberg for David. He became a Junior Firefighter with the Deerfield Volunteer Fire Company in 2018 and is also part of the Firemen's Association of the State of New York. David remembers those who came before him and paid the ultimate sacrifice participating in the annual Central New York Memorial Stair Climb to pay tribute and “Never Forget”.

The person nominating David, said anytime he's within earshot of a siren, you can bet David is headed for the door. He is always thanking everyone for their service, it's time he was thanked too.

He truly is a good person with a good heart and ever since he was able has given of himself unselfishly.

David, we thank you for not only service, but the countless hours spent learning how to help others in an emergency and how you can assist other first responders at the scene.

Do you know a first responder that deserves to be recognized? Tell us about someone who should be honored in Central New York - a firefighter, police officer, EMT, forest ranger, paramedic, DEC officers, military, rescuers, front line workers, or any other person first on the scene.

Include their name, a picture and why they should be recognized during 'First Responder Friday." We'll honor one first responder every Friday and as a way to say thank you, we'll give them a Bundt cake from Nothing Bundt Cakes.