Ambulance Union Speaks Out After Being Dropped By Medford

MEDFORD, MA — Armstrong Ambulance Services Union has spoken out in the aftermath of having its emergency medical services contract terminated earlier this week.

Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn recently announced that Medford has agreed to a three-year contract with Cataldo Ambulance. The company will now be providing all basic and advanced lifesaving ambulance emergency response coverage for the city beginning on Monday, Jan. 19. Prior to this new arrangement, Armstrong was the city’s primary emergency medical service provider for the last 25 years. The union expressed its shock and disappointment over Lungo-Koehn’s decision not to continue the partnership into 2026.

“This decision was made without public explanation and without regard for the professionals who have protected this community for decades. Many of us live in Medford. We raise our families here. We respond to our neighbors’ worst days, and we do so with pride, professionalism, and deep commitment to this city,” the union said. “Despite Armstrong’s demonstrated record, the City has provided no clear justification for replacing its trusted EMS provider after more than two decades of committed service.”

The union advocated for itself over its competitors by saying that its ambulances are never diverted for hospital transfers and that its Medford vehicles are staffed 24 hours per day seven days per week.
Armstrong was founded in 1946 by William F. Armstrong in the neighboring town of Arlington. The Marine Corps Veteran purchased his first vehicle upon returning from serving in World War II. It is now the largest unionized private ambulance provider in the state.

Medford residents deserve transparency and accountability in decisions that directly impact public safety,” the union said. “We sincerely hope any future provider can meet the standards of experience, staffing, and commitment.”

Patch has reached out to Lungo-Koehn and is awaiting a response. Check back for an update.

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