10/28/2026
Muncy, Pa. – UPMC rolled out the red carpet Tuesday, Oct. 13, not for Hollywood stars, but for the local heroes who answer the call when their communities need them most.“The Stars Are Here... and They Wear Uniforms,” held at The District – Dipson Theater in Muncy Township, brought together first responders, public safety professionals and community partners for an evening dedicated to recognizing the people behind emergency response. The event featured a special screening of Into the Unknown, a documentary offering a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the challenges, sacrifices and resilience of first responders.
"EMS professionals are there for people on some of the worst days of their lives, often without expecting recognition for the work they do," said Patti Jackson-Gehris, president, UPMC Williamsport, and market president, UPMC North Central Pa. "This event was our opportunity to simply say thank you. Their dedication, skill, and compassion make a difference every day, and we are proud to support them.”Before the screening, attendees connected with colleagues and community partners while exploring ambulances and other emergency response vehicles on display. Representatives from UPMC and Susquehanna Regional EMS (SREMS) also offered educational resources and demonstrations of emergency equipment.
For the over 100 EMS professionals in attendance who spend their careers helping others through moments of crisis, the evening also created an opportunity to connect with one another and reflect on the importance of wellness and resilience.
“This event was about so much more than the activities and the film; it’s about the conversations, connections, and sense of community that it inspired,” said Tony Bixby, chief, Susquehanna Regional EMS, and director, Pre-hospital Services, UPMC North Central Pa. “Throughout the evening, we were reminded of the courage, commitment, and care that define EMS and health care. We have received tremendous feedback from attendees who found the documentary inspiring, thought-provoking, and deeply meaningful. Our hope is that these conversations continue, with an ongoing focus on well-being, peer support, and looking out for one another.”The evening offered a powerful reminder that behind every ambulance, emergency call, and response are people committed to serving their neighbors at critical moments. Through their professionalism, compassion, and dedication, EMS and public safety professionals make a lasting difference for individuals and families throughout north central Pennsylvania. That service deserves recognition not just at special events, but throughout the year.
As communities nationwide face increasing demands on emergency services, UPMC remains committed to strengthening resources, partnerships, and people who make emergency response possible. To learn more about UPMC’s community commitment for EMS, visit UPMC.com.
MEDIA: Click here for photos from the event.
