The National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA) recently recognized Michigan State Trooper and Huron Valley Ambulance paramedic Ben Sonstrom with their Award of Excellence for his unselfish dedication to the enhancement of Tactical Emergency Medical Services (TEMS) programs.

TEMS teams provide preventive urgent and emergent medical care to police teams (more commonly known as SWAT teams) during high-risk and extended duration law enforcement special operations. TEMS providers develop medical threat assessments, render immediate medical care in high-risk environments, and provide logistical support during training and tactical operations. Their presence ensures the health and safety of police officers.

Sonstrom is a full time Michigan State Police trooper and a part time paramedic for HVA.  Sonstrom received the award on September 22 at the Tactical Operations Conference in Richmond, Virginia.

This award is presented each year to three officers who contribute the most to further the goals of the tactical community through performance, dedication and leadership.

NTOA is a non-profit association dedicated to keeping tactical police officers informed and well trained. They endorse and support the incorporation of a well-trained and equipped TEMS element into all tactical teams. TEMS providers train with the police teams continuously in order to work seamlessly with them on dangerous scenes.

Based in Ann Arbor, Huron Valley Ambulance is a nationally accredited, nonprofit community ambulance service covering Washtenaw, western Wayne and southwest Oakland counties.