Heroes Who Serve: 5 First Responders Keeping Vermont Safe

Vermont is home to dedicated first responders who go above and beyond to keep their communities safe. That’s why Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to spotlight EMTs, firefighters and police officers who are making a difference every day.

Check out five outstanding Vermont first responders who are making an impact. And if you know a hero who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate a first responder for a chance to be featured in our Heroes Who Serve series on Patch!

First Responder Ryan Gladstone (Waterbury) — Ryan Gladstone, a volunteer first responder with Waterbury Ambulance Service, was honored as Vermont’s First Responder Provider of the Year for his exceptional dedication and service. In 2023, he responded to 276 emergency calls and logged more shifts than anyone else on the team, often surpassing the efforts of full-time staff. Known for his clinical skill, reliability and commitment to the community, Gladstone also maintained the service’s vehicle fleet to ensure readiness at all times. His selflessness and tireless work make him a true hero in the world of emergency medical services. Read more here.

Police Officer Michelle Archer (Cambridge) — Vermont Trooper Michelle Archer was recognized as a hero for her brave rescue of an 8-year-old girl who had fallen through thin ice on a pond in Cambridge. Her quick, selfless actions saved the child’s life and earned her the title of Officer of the Month for December 2023 from the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. The organization praised her courage, stating the outcome could have been tragic without her intervention. Archer’s heroism also made her a finalist for the prestigious Trooper of the Year Award, highlighting her exceptional dedication to protecting others. Read more here.

Senior Officer Jimmy Plakas (Rutland) — Senior Officer Jimmy Plakas received the Life Saving Award from the Rutland Town Police Department for preventing a woman from jumping off a bridge. In November 2023, he responded to a call about a person standing on the guardrail of the Route 4 overpass and found the woman threatening to jump. Plakas stayed calm and spoke with her for 15 to 20 minutes. He helped de-escalate the situation until another officer who knew her arrived and convinced her to step back to safety. His quick thinking, compassion and use of crisis training saved a life and earned him heartfelt praise from his department and community. Read more here.

Firefighter Charlie Jones (Shelburne) — Firefighter Charlie Jones of the Shelburne Fire Department was doubly honored in 2024 as both Rookie of the Year and Firefighter of the Year—a rare recognition that reflects his exceptional dedication and rapid growth. Since joining in February 2023, Jones has logged nearly 500 hours of training and responded to over 150 incidents. Now certified as a Firefighter 2 and rope rescue technician, he also serves on the department’s staffing committee. Known for his positive attitude and commitment to teamwork, Jones has quickly become an indispensable part of the Shelburne Fire Department. Read more here.

First Responder Ryan Gladstone (Waterbury) — Ryan Gladstone, a volunteer with Waterbury Ambulance Service, was named Vermont’s 2024 First Responder Provider of the Year for his extraordinary dedication and service to the community. In 2023 alone, Gladstone responded to 276 emergency calls and covered nearly 1,800 miles—often contributing more time than paid staff. Beyond patient care, he plays a vital behind-the-scenes role as the agency’s vehicle maintenance officer. Described as selfless, skilled and deeply committed, Gladstone exemplifies the teamwork and compassion at the heart of emergency medical services. Read more here.

We’re fortunate in Vermont to have first responders like these working tirelessly to keep us safe. If you know a local hero who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured on Patch!