Wantagh Fire Department Captain Paramedic Wins National Award

WANTAGH, NY — A captain with the Wantagh Fire Department's Emergency Medical Services unit has been awarded a national volunteer paramedic of the year award.

Stephen Lincke, a 40-year member of the Wantagh Fire Department, won the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians's 2020 national volunteer EMS Paramedic of the Year Award, the fire department said Friday. The EMT organization represents the professional interests of emergency and mobile healthcare practitioners.

Lincke oversees the Wantagh Fire Department's two EMS squads that staff the department's ambulances. As captain, Lincke responds to many emergency incidents, often serving as the first EMS provider on the scene.

"His vast experience and adherence to the latest EMS protocols enable him to be critical not only for providing the finest pre-hospital care, but also as a source of information and comfort as he assists not only the patient but their family as they make important decisions," a Wantagh Fire Department spokesman said. "In addition, his ability to pass on his skills to newer and less experienced providers is invaluable, and he is always striving to find new training and educational opportunities for those under his command."

In light of the coronavirus pandemic, Lincke was appointed to the department's COVID-19 task force and tasked with maintaining an adequate supply of personal protective equipment for department staff.

Lincke was also recently recognized for his leadership by the state Department of Health. His "professional performance invaluable to the EMS system” and “setting the standard for others to emulate” were key to that recognition, according to state EMS Director Ryan Greenberg.

Lincke formerly served the New York City Fire Department for 34 years. He is a retired assistant chief and paramedic with the FDNY Bureau of EMS.

The NAEMT Awards of Excellence will be presented to all recipients at a virtual general membership meeting Tuesday, Sept. 15.