For Bob Maslanka, joining Montgomery EMS wasn’t just a decision—it was a calling inspired by his children.
“My journey into volunteering with Montgomery EMS began with stories,” Bob recalls. “Specifically, the stories my daughter, Carolyn, and son, Jeff, would share when they came home from their shifts. They talked about the people they met, the challenges they faced, and the difference they were making in the community. Their experiences lit a spark in me.”
That spark turned into action. Bob joined Montgomery EMS. He was already a firefighter with Montgomery Fire Company 46.
“Balancing both roles takes planning, but it’s rewarding,” he says. “I dedicate Wednesdays and certain weekdays to fire calls, and Sundays are reserved for EMS. It’s a rhythm that works for me.”
While both EMS and fire service involve emergency response, Bob finds the experiences quite distinct.
“EMS is very personal. You’re with people in vulnerable moments—listening to their stories, caring for them directly,” he explains. “It’s often humbling.”
He’s particularly impressed by the younger generation of EMTs. “Many start in high school, and by the time they’re in college, they’ve seen and done so much. They carry themselves with such confidence and poise.”
Firefighting, on the other hand, is more mission-driven. “You go in, solve the problem, and get out. It’s tactical, fast-paced. The team tends to be older, more established. There’s not always time for conversation, but the impact is just as meaningful.”
“I’m now living the same kind of stories that first inspired me to join.”
What Bob values most in EMS is the professionalism and sense of purpose.
“The training, the structure, the dedication—everyone knows their role and is working toward a common goal. That spirit of teamwork and compassion is something I truly enjoy being part of.”
One of his most meaningful experiences was sharing EMS shifts with his daughter, Carolyn, several years ago when she was a member of the squad.
“As the senior EMT, she’s in charge, even though she was my daughter,” Bob says, smiling. “I’m just another member of the team. Watching her lead with such confidence and commitment has been a proud and powerful experience for me as a parent and a fellow volunteer.”
For Bob, the most inspiring moments often come when Fire and EMS work side-by-side.
“When I’m with EMS, it’s amazing to see my fire colleagues support the scene. When I’m with Fire, I feel proud watching EMS teammates provide such skilled and empathetic care,” he says. “That cross-team collaboration is what makes this community special. It’s in those moments that I realize—I’m now living the same kind of stories that first inspired me to join.”
