Honorees

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Year Honored
2008
Honoree
Joe Alvarez, Jr.
Agency
East Texas Medical Center EMS
Agency City
Waco
Agency State
TX
Last Call
9/13/06
Cause of Death
Non Ambulance Involved MVC
Biography
Joe was selfless. He had a sincere caring attitude for his family, his friends, and his work. He always went the extra mile for his patients. Joe was smart, kind, and enjoyed his life, and wanted others to enjoy their life as well. He often said "we are taking good care of people so they can live a full life." .<br /> <br /> Joe "Jay" Alvarez, Jr., 32, of Robinson died in a Line of Duty death on September 13, 2006. Joe was driving when he drifted into the inside lane of the highway, striking the rear end of a street sweeper. Alvarez was pronounced dead at the scene.<br /> <br /> Joe served in the U.S. Army as a Combat Medic where he obtained numerous awards and decorations; he also served in the Gulf War. Upon retiring from the Army Joe worked for seven years with the Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Department as a driver engineer and taught an Emergency Medical Technician course. During that time he obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Fire Science. Joe moved to Texas and starting working for East Texas Medical Center, where he was promoted to supervisor. He served with Rural Hill Medical and was promoted to supervisor. Mr. Alvarez upgraded the Rural Hill EMS to one of the best services in the area by implementing courses and the latest in equipment. He taught EMT courses at the Hill Community College, where he took special time with the needs of his students.<br /> <br /> Joe would want to be remembered for his love of cooking, singing, and playing the guitar. He would want to be remembered for the love he had for his family and for life in general.<br /> <br /> Honored 2008