"When someone who is such a fixture, someone your agency can always count on leaves, it is hard to fill that void," said a co-worker. Bob was that person; it has been hard to fill his shoes. His work was respected, and people everywhere in the community knew and regarded Bob as one of the very best in the medical profession.<br />
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Robert Gilmore, 60, of Bartow, Florida, died in the line of duty on July 5, 2003. He was pulling duty at the Polk County EMS agency when he became ill. Bob was undertaking a self-exam when he was found unresponsive with the blood pressure cuff still on his arm. Agency members administered aid while he was being transported to the local hospital. The following day, paramedic Gilmore died from a stroke he suffered the day before.<br />
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Gilmore began his employment with the Polk County EMS in 1983 as a paramedic. He was honored as Paramedic of the Year in 1992, and Professional of the Year in 2002. Bob retired with 23 years of service in the United States Navy and was a veteran of the Vietnam Conflict.<br />
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Bob lived for family and emergency medical service. They were his passions, each filling him with achievement and joy. He was an asset to the community and his absence will be felt by many.<br />
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Honored 2009 |