The 1970s TV show Emergency was one of my favorites growing up. It was about two groundbreaking paramedics Roy DeSoto and Johnny Gage who were dedicated to saving lives in Los Angeles. As a kid this whole world of firefighters and paramedics captured my imagination and inspired me.

The adventure and important work of rescuing people was a huge part of the appeal. Like most shows the characters make the whole thing special. Kevin Tighe and Randolph Mantooth brought DeSoto and Gage to life along with the crews of Station 51 and Rampart Hospital.

On July 9th Randolph Mantooth died at the age of 80. I am sad, but I am glad he lives on through his work and talent he shared with the world. He along with his on-screen partner Kevin influenced generations of men and women to go into the profession of firefighting and paramedics.

Randy, thank you for being a special part of my childhood. You will be missed but your legacy lives on. Rest in power. KMG365.