Pete Ghiringhelli of Gwinn, left, shakes hands with Forsyth Township Supervisor Joe Boogren, as Boogren presents Ghiringhelli with his plaque for the 2017 Advanced Emergency Medical Technician of the Year award from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ Bureau of EMS, Trauma and Preparedness at a Forsyth Township Board meeting. (Photo courtesy of Carilyn Froberg, Forsyth Township EMS director)

MARQUETTE — Pete Ghiringhelli of Gwinn was recently recognized as one of Michigan’s 10 best emergency medical technicians, receiving a 2017 Advanced Emergency Medical Technician of the Year award from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ Bureau of EMS, Trauma and Preparedness at a Forsyth Township Board meeting.

“It was an honor to get that award,” Ghiringhelli said.

He said he’s grateful for the state’s acknowledgment of first responders with the award, noting that “it means a lot that the state takes time out to recognize people.”

Ghiringhelli, who served as director of Forsyth Township Volunteer Fire Department for over 20 years, has served as a volunteer EMT and firefighter with the Forsyth Township Volunteer Fire Department for over 30 years. He was recognized with Marquette County’s own EMT of the Year award in 2001, he said.

Ghiringelli completed his training as a firefighter in 1986 and was inspired to pursue EMT education and licensing due to the need for EMTs in his community.

“Our township needed people and I was on the fire department, they were looking for EMTs, so I signed up,” he said.

He received his EMT license in 1988 after completing EMT education in 1987, he said.

Ghiringhelli went on to pursue training as an advanced EMT to expand his skill set and be able to offer additional care as a responder, he said.

Throughout his years of service, Ghiringhelli has responded to many calls, even assisting with the delivery of babies.

“I’ve seen everything, I’ve done everything,” he said, noting he has been glad to serve his community throughout the years.

He is grateful for the support of his wife, Patty, their three children, as well as the support of his co-workers.

“We work with a great group of people, that makes it easier to do,” he said.