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    Minnesota EMS Provider Recognition Program

    The Minnesota Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMS) is proud to recognize the dedication, service, and sacrifice of EMS professionals across the state. The EMS Provider Recognition Program honors individuals who have made a lasting impact on emergency medical services—through years of service, leadership in education, exceptional actions, or ultimate sacrifice.

    This program allows OEMS, EMS agencies, families, and the public to celebrate those who embody the core values of Minnesota EMS: service, integrity, compassion, and professionalism. 

    Recognition Categories

    Prestigious RetirementPrestigious Retirement Recognition

    For individuals who are retiring after 15 or more years of active EMS service in Minnesota—including those who served prior to the establishment of EMS licensure in 1995. Certified or licensed individuals who formally retire their credentials may also be granted the honorary title suffix “-Retired” to reflect their service. For example, a retired Emergency Medical Technician may use the designation “EMT–Retired” or “EMT–Ret.”

    Required Documents:

    • Confirmation of retirement
    • Summary of service history

    Emeritus DesignationEMS Lifetime Achievement – Emeritus Designation

    For individuals whose careers reflect exceptional, sustained contributions to EMS in Minnesota. This designation may be awarded upon retirement, after retirement, or posthumously, and includes those who served prior to the establishment of EMS licensure in 1995. Recipients may be granted the honorary title suffix “–Emeritus” to recognize their lasting impact on the profession. For example, a retired paramedic may use the designation “Paramedic–Emeritus.”

    Required Documents:

    • Career timeline or biography
    • Letter(s) of support describing the individual’s impact

    Service in MemoryService in Memory Recognition

    For certified or registered EMS providers who passed away outside the line of duty, in recognition of their career and commitment to EMS.

    Required Documents:

    • Certification status
    • Documentation or obituary acknowledging their EMS service

    Line-of-Duty HonorMinnesota EMS Star of Life – Line of Duty Honor

    The highest distinction awarded by OEMS, given to EMS providers who lost their lives in the line of duty while serving the people of Minnesota. An EMS Star of Life designation is automatically conferred once OEMS and the Director confirm that the death occurred in the line of duty during certified EMS service.

    Honorary EMSHonorary EMS Recognition

    For individuals who are not certified EMS personnel but who have taken exceptional action to support EMS efforts, improve outcomes, or advance emergency care. This award includes those in related emergency service roles such as dispatchers, firefighters, and law enforcement.

    Required Documents:

    • Written description of the event or contribution
    • Letter(s) of support from EMS personnel or agency leaders

    OEMS Director's AwardOEMS Director’s Award for EMS Excellence

    Awarded at the discretion of the OEMS Director to individuals who have made a significant and measurable impact on the EMS system in Minnesota.

    Required Documents:

    • Nomination narrative outlining the contribution
    • Any supporting documentation available
    Click here to submit your nomination

    Eligibility Overview

    • Nominations may be submitted by EMS colleagues, supervisors, agency leaders, OEMS staff, or members of the public.
    • Nominees may include currently certified personnel, retired professionals, or community members with a direct impact on EMS.
    • Nominees must not be under current disciplinary action or active investigation.

    Exceptions

    • The Honorary EMS Recognition Award may be given to individuals without EMS credentials, including civilians, students, or professionals in other fields who have contributed meaningfully to EMS.

    Nomination Materials

    Each nomination must include details explaining how the nominee meets the criteria for the award. Additional materials—such as letters of support, service records, or incident summaries—are identified for each recognition category. To complete your nomination, please submit:

    • A completed nomination form 
    • A clear description of the nominee’s contribution, service, or act
    • Any supporting documentation or letters of support identified in the category's description

    Judging Criteria

    • Nominations are evaluated based on impact, alignment with award intent, and completeness.
    • Awards are determined at the discretion of the OEMS Director, with joint approval of the appropriate Deputy Directors.
    • Incomplete or insufficiently supported nominations may not be approved.
    If a nomination isn’t selected, it’s not a reflection of the nominee’s worth or the value of their service. It simply means that, based on the details provided, we weren’t able to fully meet the criteria for recognition at this time. We deeply appreciate every submission—and we encourage nominators to strengthen and resubmit if they wish. Every story matters.

    Submission Checklist

    Before submitting, make sure you have:

    • Selected the appropriate award category
    • Completed the nomination form
    • Attached supporting documentation
    • Verified the nominee’s eligibility
    • Included your contact information

    Questions?

    For help with the nomination process, or to confirm eligibility:

    • Email: info.oems@state.mn.us
    • Phone: 651-201-2800
    Click here to submit your nomination
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