EMS Week spotlight: Bryce Saxon

Editor's Note: May 17-23 is National Emergency Medical Services Week. In honor of this year's theme, "Improving Outcomes, Together," we are presenting a series of spotlights focused on the firefighter/paramedics and firefighter/EMTs who serve as first responders for DLA Weapons Support (Columbus) and Defense Supply Center Columbus.

Name: Bryce Saxon

Job title: firefighter/paramedic

What inspired you to become a firefighter/paramedic? I had wanted to become a firefighter since I was six years old. My father joined my town's local volunteer fire department and has since been an inspiration to my work.

When did you join DLA Fire and Emergency Services and what did you do before you got here? I joined DLA FES in April of 2025. Before joining DLA, I spent six years at John Glenn Columbus International Airport, where I left as a lieutenant with the aircraft rescue and firefighting team. I have also worked as a paramedic for OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital, OhioHealth Grant Medical Center, Columbus Connection/Superior Ambulance and Gallia County EMS. I first got into firefighting in 2012 at the Gallipolis Volunteer Fire Department.

Describe your typical shift in 2-3 sentences. A typical shift starts with roll call and truck checks where we can prepare ourselves and our equipment to provide the best possible outcome for the emergencies we face. We then take time to better ourselves through physical exercise and fire/EMS training. Throughout the shift, we respond to emergency calls where we can assist those in need and make a difference in our community.

Is there a moment you've encountered on duty that stands out? A moment that stands out the most would be the Halloween Trunk or Treat event held last October. It was wonderful to see all the families out on base and be able to show the children our ladder truck. All firefighters are kids at heart, and who doesn't love a big red truck with lights and sirens?

What's the hardest part of your job and why? The hardest part of the job is also the best part of the job. No two emergencies are the same which makes you think outside of the box and find new ways to solve the problem. Every call starts with minimal information about the pieces that are presented and we must take all things into consideration to form a plan, then put the puzzle together.

What do you like most about your job and why? The thing I enjoy most about my job is getting to help people on their darkest days. Even things that seem small to us as firefighters might be the worst thing imaginable to an individual. Being able to help others is rewarding and worth every second.

How do you unwind after a shift? After shift, I unwind by spending time with friends and family in many ways. I personally enjoy paintball, snowboarding, music trivia at my local pub and trying to hit those sweet golf shots I never seem to make on the course.