National EMS Memorial Service Honoree

	Peter A. Abplanalp AirLife-Denver Aurora, Colorado

On the right of December 14, 1997, just after lifting off from the scene of a major accident, Pete's helicopter struck electrical wires and crashed to the ground. He was evacuating a driver critically injured in a head-on collision. All members of the crew and the patient were killed in the crash.

"Pete was somebody I'd have no hesitations to fly with" said KOA radio traffic pilot Al Verley, who flew with him in the Wyoming Army Guard. Friends said the 50-year-old pilot was a great teacher, a loyal friend, and a man always willing to help.

Pete was a helicopter pilot for 20 years with the National Guard. He had served many years of active duty flying medevac missions in Vietnam and Desert Storm. He won a long list of medals for his service, including the Kuwaiti Liberation Medal and a Southwest Asia Service Medal with three bronze stars.

Pete came to AirLife 18 months ago after a long career as a civil engineer, pursuing his life-long love of flying. He is survived by his wife, Coleen, who lives in Thornton, Colorado.

Honored 1998