Armstrong Ambulance crew honored for life-saving response to Waltham mass overdose

Two Armstrong Ambulance Service responders have been recognized with a top statewide honor for their response to a multipatient overdose in Waltham last year.

Paramedic Lian Grissino and EMT Aaron Dalpe received the 2026 Circle of Excellence Award from the Massachusetts Ambulance Association, one of five crews across the state honored last week for outstanding emergency medical service.

The award stems from their actions during an early morning call on Sept. 28, 2025, initially dispatched as a single overdose. Upon arrival, Grissino and Dalpe encountered three critically ill patients, including two in cardiac arrest and a third in severe respiratory failure.

The situation quickly escalated into a mass casualty medical emergency, requiring rapid triage, advanced clinical interventions and coordinated teamwork under intense pressure.

As additional responders arrived and began CPR, Grissino assumed clinical command of the scene. She performed advanced airway management, provided ventilatory support, administered medications and directed cardiac arrest care for multiple patients simultaneously. During the response, she also managed a difficult, partially obstructed airway while continuing resuscitation efforts.

Dalpe supported patient care and scene coordination, assisting with life-saving interventions and helping ensure continuous attention to all three patients.

Officials said the crew’s actions reflected a high level of composure, clinical skill and teamwork during one of the most challenging scenarios emergency responders face.

“These honorees represent the very best of what EMS looks like in Massachusetts,” MAA President Dennis Cataldo said in a statement. “Their actions remind us why this work matters. They speak for the thousands of EMTs, paramedics, dispatchers and support professionals across the state who show up every day ready to do whatever it takes for the people in their care.”