American Sirens: The Incredible Story of the Black Men Who Became America's First Paramedics

The dramatic history of a group of young black men who forged a new path in healthcare through the creation of Pittsburgh’s Freedom House Emergency Medical Services. Did you know that the U.S. had no EMS services until the ‘60s? Calling 911 in a medical emergency summoned ambulances staffed by cops or funeral home employees, but no one was available to attempt life-saving care before reaching the hospital. Determined to save lives and support their community when no one else would, young men from the Steel City’s Hill District banded together to serve as paramedics, going from a scrappy team to international leaders in emergency healthcare. A compelling, troubling, and inspiring true story.