Seven newly acquired ambulances were formally commissioned and placed into service Thursday by the Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services during an Ambulance Blessing Ceremony, expanding emergency medical response capacity across the territory, Virgin Islands Fire Emergency and Medical Services announced in a press release.
The ambulances were purchased using grant funding from the Health Resources and Services Administration, administered through the Virgin Islands Health Department. Three of the units are assigned to St. Croix, three to St. Thomas and one to St. John.
The new vehicles feature upgraded safety and medical equipment, including Four Wheel Drive capability, collision-prevention systems, power-lift stretchers with loaders, advanced lighting, and onboard technology designed to support patient care and responder safety.
“While I am sometimes given credit for changes across the Territory, the reality is that progress happens when all of us work together to move the Virgin Islands forward. That is what we are acknowledging today,” Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. said. “I am proud of the many improvements taking place across the Government of the Virgin Islands.”
Lt. Gov. Tregenza A. Roach urged residents to support emergency responders while the ambulances are in service.
“When you hear sirens, please pull over and allow our responders to pass so they can meet life-saving needs,” Roach said.
VIFEMS Director Antonio O. Stevens said the acquisition and deployment of the ambulances required coordination across multiple government agencies.
“This effort was not accomplished internally alone,” Stevens said. “I would like to thank our partner agencies, including the Virgin Islands Department of Property and Procurement and the Virgin Islands Department of Health. The work required coordination across government, and I am appreciative of that shared commitment.”
VIFEMS officials said the commissioning and blessing of the ambulances reflects the agency’s continued focus on strengthening emergency medical services and providing timely care to residents throughout the territory.
