FDNY and FDNY Foundation celebrate 50 years of paramedicine in New York City with release of new film, 'An Extraordinary Measure'

January 28, 2025

The FDNY celebrated 50 years of paramedicine in New York City with the release of its latest film, "An Extraordinary Measure," during a premiere event Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025, inside the Commissioner Robert O. Lowery Auditorium at Department headquarters in Brooklyn.

The 30-minute film, presented by the FDNY Foundation and the FDNY Pro Film Board, depicts how New York City EMS paramedicine made its debut 50 years ago, exponentially advancing pre-hospital care, and how it evolved into the FDNY's elite paramedic program of today. It features interviews with FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker, FDNY Chief of EMS Operations Michael Fields, and members from the first New York City paramedic class.

"This film is a look back at the storied history of emergency medicine in New York City—50 years since the first class of paramedics began emergency medicine, pre-hospital care," Fire Commissioner Tucker said. "It has changed rather significantly. Technology has changed, equipment has changed. ... All of it is very different today than it was five decades ago. ... But, what hasn't changed are the people, the dedicated people of this Department who put their lives on the line in service of others—the men and women who are very highly trained and for whom empathy, care and quick thinking are second nature."

Chief of EMS Operations Michael Fields added: "Over the past five decades, power in medicine has evolved from basic emergency response to a specialized profession that plays pivotal roles in saving lives and improving patient outcome. Reflecting on the journey of power in medicine in New York City, we cannot overlook the significant advancements brought about. ... As we commemorate this milestone, it's essential to recognize the dedicated work of paramedics, emergency medical technicians and health care professionals who have been at the forefront of emergency medical care in our city."

At the film premiere, the Department announced the creation of the Dr. Sheldon Jacobson Award—An Extraordinary Medal, which will be given annually at the FDNY Medal Day ceremony to a paramedic who demonstrates stellar, advanced lifesaving skills and service.

Proceeds from the film support the lifesaving mission of the FDNY Foundation. Watch the film at FDNYPro.org.