Johnny Gage is truly dedicated to EMS

Randolph Mantooth, aka Johnny Gage from the 1970's television show "Emergency" is truly one of the nicest men I have ever met! As you know from my previous post, I was so excited that I would get to hear Johnny Gage (of Gage and DeSoto fame) speak today at the opening ceremony of the expo.
Not only did I hear him give an amazing, and very amusing, lecture on the history of the EMS system (and the role Emergency played in it-which was huge), but I also got to meet him, shake his hand and thank him for his contribution, and got his autograph twice.
After the ceremony was over (it lasted at least an hour, maybe two) we were told that Randy would be signing autographs in the exhibit hall to raise money for the Los Angeles Fire Museum. Since he had already spoke for about an hour, and he was a tv star, I assumed he would take a while to get over to the expo hall. Boy was I wrong. Randy went immediately over to the booth to start signing autographs, and he was signing, and personalizing, everything that was put in front of him. No matter how insignificant it seemed.
After standing in line for almost two hours (he only took one 15 minute break) it was finally my turn! I felt like I was 11 again, meeting one of my heros. I was all giddy and speechless and anyone that knows me can attest to the fact I've always got something to say. Speechless, me? Never! Randolph Mantooth is one of the reasons I ended up in the medical field, and the main reason I've been an EMT since 1986. Plus, I had a huge crush on him during the entire 70's.
I got a black and white photograph, which I asked his lovely wife Kristen to choose for me since I could not decide which one I liked the most (it was her favorite of all of them) and a Limited Edition Code 3 Crown 51 Engine autographed- for myself. Not for anyone else. For little ole selfish me. (I'll post the photo's as soon as I can find the connection to my camera).
I want all of you to know that Mr. Mantooth not only signed autographs on Wednesday, but he came back two more days and patiently signed everything that was placed in front of him. He is truly a remarkable man. I just want to say "thank you Johnny" for all you have done for Paramedics, and being one of us. Also, a special thanks to his wonderful wife Kristen Conners for sharing him with his fans.