EMS workers are honored

It's that time of year again, and those volunteers that make Carlton County a safer place to live by providing emergency medical services throughout the year were recognized at the Carlton County board meeting on March 14.

Moose Lake Fire District chief Steve Trenhaile presented the awards to each of the recipients. Trenhaile has spearheaded the EMS and fire department training in Moose Lake.

Erik Bergstedt was honored as "Person of the Year" for EMS. Bergstedt is an emergency department nurse at the Cloquet hospital, an ambulance supervisor at the Carlton Fire and Ambulance, and a volunteer firefighter. Dedicated to continuing education for EMS, Bergstedt provides CPR training for areas both in Carlton and St. Louis counties, heads recruitment in local departments, and started the active shooter training in our area.

Tony Compo received the EMS Lifetime Achievement Award for 32 years with the Esko Fire Department, retiring from the Assistant Chief position. He earned a two-year degree in fire technology and administration in 1991, and has led crews in the floods at Moorhead and the Ham Lake Fire, and became a crew boss for 21 firefighters in wildland firefighting. Compo has consistently been top for run percentage on the Esko Fire Department. A Thomson Township board supervisor, Compo has worked at the Esko School and still finds time to lead and promote a strong 4-H program in the local area.

Mike Orlowski was recognized as the Friend of EMS recipient. Orlowski has provided several of the Carlton County fire and ambulance departments with reliable maintenance and emergency service and repair.

The Esko Fire Department was recognized as the EMS Association's Unit of the year. Esko responded to 361 calls in 2022, ranging from medical calls, vehicle accidents, structure fires, and search and rescues. Esko has responded to provide mutual aid for other departments in both Carlton and St. Louis counties.