The name displayed on the Pinellas County Emergency Medical Service and Fire Administration Center represents far more than a dedication on a building. It symbolizes a legacy of service, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to public safety. That name is John Morroni.
On June 13, 2026, Sunstar Paramedics was honored to attend the John Morroni Legacy Foundation Awards Ceremony, an event dedicated to recognizing the extraordinary work performed every day by first responders and public safety professionals throughout Pinellas County.
Established in 2019, the John Morroni Legacy Foundation continues the vision of John Morroni, who served both in the Florida Legislature and on the Pinellas County Commission. Throughout his career, Commissioner Morroni was a steadfast advocate for law enforcement officers, K-9 teams, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, and emergency dispatchers. Today, the Foundation carries forward his legacy by honoring those who selflessly serve our community.
This year, Sunstar Paramedics was especially proud to see one of our own recognized for an act that exemplifies the very best of our profession.
Field Operations Supervisor James Marshall was working during the early morning hours when an unidentified man arrived at a North County deployment location carrying a firearm. The individual was experiencing a profound personal crisis and had intentions of harming himself. Upon seeing Jim, he stated, “You know what to do.”
In an instant, the situation became highly unpredictable. With fellow employees nearby and uncertainty surrounding the individual’s intentions, the potential risk to everyone involved was significant.
Remaining calm under extraordinary pressure, Jim raised his hands, established communication, and began to de-escalate the encounter. Through patience, compassion, and composure, he created an environment where the individual felt safe enough to surrender the firearm, placing it on a nearby table.
At the same time, EMT Corey Baldwin immediately contacted the Communications Center to request additional resources, while EMT Nicholas Eberhardt remained on scene to provide support. Paramedic Rebecca Ashworth and EMT Daniela Silvera responded as the transporting Sunstar ambulance, ensuring the patient received timely care and transportation to an appropriate medical facility.
The response demonstrated that this was not the work of one individual alone—it was a coordinated team effort. Every member played a critical role, reflecting Sunstar’s Mission, Vision, and Values through professionalism, teamwork, and compassionate care.
As the immediate danger subsided, the encounter transformed from one of crisis to one of compassion. What began with raised hands ended with an embrace. In that powerful moment, empathy became the treatment that was needed most.
Because of the actions of Jim and the responding team, no one was injured. More importantly, a person in crisis was safely connected with the care and support they needed.
This event serves as a powerful reminder that emergency responders are often called upon during the most difficult moments in a person’s life. While our teams are highly trained to manage medical emergencies and dangerous situations, they also bring humanity, compassion, and understanding to every encounter.
Sunstar Paramedics is fortunate to have professionals like James Marshall, Corey Baldwin, Nicholas Eberhardt, Rebecca Ashworth, Daniela Silvera, and countless others who demonstrate these values every day. Their dedication reflects our mission of providing compassionate, high-quality care and service built around the needs of the patients and communities we serve.
This story also reminds us that depression and mental health crises are real, and help is always available. No one should face those struggles alone.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the John Morroni Legacy Foundation for continuing to recognize and celebrate the work of first responders throughout Pinellas County. We also congratulate James Marshall and the responding crew for demonstrating the extraordinary impact of empathy, professionalism, and teamwork. Sometimes, the most powerful act of care isn’t found in advanced medicine or specialized equipment—it can be found in the simple act of treating another human being with compassion.
