American Legion Career EMS Provider of the Year

MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930

A Prince George’s County Firefighter/Medic was recognized as the American Legion - Department of Maryland - Career EMS Provider of the Year. Fire Fighter/Medic Stephanie A. Buffum was presented with her award on Thursday, June 12, at the organization’s annual convention in Ocean City, Maryland. In order to attain the Maryland State designation as the Career EMS Provider, Stephanie had to be selected among other nominees at the County and District levels as well.

Fire Fighter/Medic Buffum, according to the American Legion, is being recognized for her “extraordinary knowledge in the medical field, keen ability to problem solve, attention to detail, and profound dedication to the citizens she serves and protects. Her 12 years of service and accomplishments is just a short testament that she loves what she does, and bigger and better things are coming her way.”

The award ceremony was attended by Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor, Fire Fighter/Medic Lieutenant Michael Buffum (Stephanie's husband), and four members of her crew that work with her at the Chillum Fire/EMS Station #844.

Chief Bashoor stated, "To be recognized by such a noble organization as the American Legion brings with the award a sense of honor and duty. I'm proud of Stephanie and her career accomplishments in the field of emergency medical services, not only with the Fire/EMS Department, but also for her work at area hospitals."

The American Legion, Department of Maryland, is a community-service organization which now numbers nearly 81,000 members -- men and women -- in 157 American Legion Posts throughout the state of Maryland. These posts range in size from 15 members to over 4,700 members in a given post.