| Year Honored | |
|---|---|
| 2009 | |
| Honoree | |
| Andrew J. Willey | |
| Agency | |
| Avera St. Lukes CareFlight | |
| Agency City | |
| Aberdeen | |
| Agency State | |
| SD | |
| Last Call | |
| 9/9/02 | |
| Cause of Death | |
| Medical Aviation Accident | |
| Biography | |
| Andy grew up loving to help others, in a family where all members were in rescue and fire services. He learned EMT skills as a young boy, taking the test with his parents. In high school he became a registered EMT and began running calls with a local rescue squad. Upon graduation he obtained his paramedic license, then became a flight paramedic. He was well skilled and always willing to go the extra mile for his patients. He said it was the most fulfilling job he could ever undertake.<br /> <br /> Andrew J. Willey, 23, was killed in the line of duty on September 9, 2002. The helicopter he was working on crashed during the transport of a critically ill patient headed to Heart Hospital of South Dakota in Sioux Falls. There were no survivors.<br /> <br /> While in high school, Willey worked for Carrington Ambulance Service in North Dakota. After completing his paramedic courses, he worked part-time for two years for Aberdeen Ambulance Service and part-time with Avera St. Luke's Hospital. In 2001 he landed his dream job when he accepted a full-time position with Avera.<br /> <br /> Andy was a wonderful guy, with a great sense of humor. He loved the outdoors, camping, and he loved animals. But the true love of his live was his daughter, who he called his "shining star." Andy will be sorely missed.<br /> <br /> Honored 2009 |
The United States Official National EMS Memorial Service
