The Gazebo Gazette
HARRISON COUNTY (GG) — Each year, Acadian Ambulance recognizes its exceptional EMS personnel for their tireless work ethic and dedication. From across the company’s four-state service area, 32 finalists were nominated by their peers for displaying exemplary attitudes and providing excellent patient care. The top winners are selected by a company-wide committee.
Acadian Ambulance will honor its top Medics of the Year, all regional honorees, and its entire medical team at its celebration on May 9 in Lafayette, LA. Paramedic Charles Wise represents the company’s Mississippi service area and was a finalist for the top honors. Acadian Ambulance has operated in Harrison County since 2024. The company has more than 100 medics in the region.
Charles began his career while serving our country in the United States Coast Guard. When he was discharged, he began working for a local ambulance provider, serving the citizens of the Mississippi Gulf Coast in 1991.
Since coming to Acadian in the spring of 2024, Charles has been an asset to the team. He has brought his extensive knowledge of paramedicine and leadership. Charles wears many hats: District Chief for the North Woolmarket Volunteer Fire District from 2004-2020, and a member of the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation and Acadian’s South Mississippi Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) Team.
Wise is also a certified instructor for the American Heart Association in all disciplines, as well as Advanced Medical Life Support. He currently works in Harrison County and plays a key role in our relationships with ancillary agencies.
Charles serves as the Acadian liaison for the Harrison County Emergency Operations Center. His many years of experience coordinating large events like Mardi Gras, Cruisin’ the Coast, and hurricane responses make him a great fit for the position. He is highly respected by his colleagues, and members of the local fire department continue to look to him as a trusted leader in every facet of EMS.
Additionally, Noah Esparza has been an EMT for 2 years and has been with Acadian since May 2024. From a young age, he has always wanted to help people, drawing inspiration from his parents, both officers in the United States Air Force. Noah has been recognized by his peers, local hospital staff, the public for his professionalism, patient care and plans to continue his career in EMS by attending paramedic school and eventually becoming a flight paramedic.
Acadian Ambulance is the largest employee-owned ambulance service in the nation, providing transportation and medical services to areas in Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, and Tennessee. It is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services.
