OKALOOSA COUNTY, Fla., Aug. 28, 2026—Okaloosa County EMS Community Paramedic Andrew Kindle has been named the 2026 National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians Community Paramedic of the Year.

The award recognizes Kindle for his outstanding contribution to the EMS profession and the patients he has served in Okaloosa County.

“I am truly humbled by this recognition and am proud to serve Okaloosa County in the role of a community paramedic,” he said. “We are out in the public every day delivering care to patients, passing out Narcan, educating people and making sure that the people who need help know that someone cares.”

Kindle helped build and lead the community paramedicine team for the past 18 months. His work earned him recognition including the Emerald Coast United Way’s 40 Under 40 Award and Okaloosa County’s Humanitarian Efforts Award.

He is passionate about caring for those often overlooked in his community, sharing that commitment through frequent training presentations for his department.

“We are very proud of Paramedic Andrew Kindle,” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Trey Goodwin. “Andrew is a shining example of how to lead by example, showing passion for his work and empathy for his patients that truly changes lives.”

Kindle is a father, husband, Marine and firefighter with more than 17 years of experience as a first responder.

He began his career in the U.S. Marine Corps, deploying with the Hurricane Katrina Task Force before entering the fire service where he became a certified hazardous material specialist and worked across North Dakota, Tennessee and Antarctica’s McMurdo Station.

He continues to serve Okaloosa County EMS as a critical care, tactical paramedic and community paramedic.

Nick Tomecek, Okaloosa County public information officer