AFSCME Local 233 Dispatcher Melissa Garcia Named 2025 Dispatcher of the Year
AFSCME Local 233 Dispatcher Melissa Garcia Named 2025 Dispatcher of the Year
For the first time, the Exchange Club presented a Dispatcher of the Year Award to a Bristol Public Safety Dispatcher, recognizing the vital role emergency dispatchers play in protecting and serving the community. This year, Melissa Garcia, a member of AFSCME Local 233, was selected as the inaugural recipient of the award.
The recognition took place yesterday evening during the 57th Annual Honoring Heroes event, which also celebrated Bristol’s EMT, Firefighter, and Police Officer of the Year.
Dispatcher Garcia earned this distinction through her outstanding performance during several critical incidents throughout 2025. Her professionalism, calm demeanor, and dedication to service exemplify the essential role dispatchers play during emergencies.
A Life-Saving Call
One of the incidents that led to Garcia receiving this honor involved a dramatic emergency call from a mother in labor inside a vehicle. During the call, the baby’s head was already crowning, and the mother urgently needed guidance.
Remaining calm and composed, Dispatcher Garcia carefully provided step-by-step medical instructions to assist with the birth. Thanks to her steady presence and clear communication, the baby boy was successfully delivered while still on the phone. During the call, the newborn could be heard crying. Both mother and child were later transported to New Britain Hospital and are doing well.
For her actions during this call, Garcia received a Letter of Commendation and a Stork Pin, an honor given to dispatchers who assist with childbirth over the phone.
Critical Support During a Major Crash
Dispatcher Garcia was also recognized for her work during a serious motor vehicle accident on Willis Street involving a vehicle that struck a tree with multiple victims trapped inside.
Responding officers quickly realized the severity of the situation, which involved a father and two children. While officers worked at the crash scene, they urgently needed next-of-kin information for the victims.
Dispatcher Garcia worked quickly and diligently to locate the necessary family contact information while simultaneously managing multiple incidents occurring throughout the city. Her rapid response allowed officers to contact family members and coordinate support during a highly stressful and chaotic shift.
Professionalism Under Pressure
Throughout both incidents, Garcia demonstrated exceptional professionalism, composure, and commitment to public safety. Her ability to remain calm under pressure and coordinate critical information helped responders deliver lifesaving assistance.
Dispatcher Garcia received two Letters of Commendation in 2025, along with a Stork Pin, further highlighting the impact of her work behind the scenes.
Honoring Bristol’s Heroes
The Honoring Heroes Dinner was held March 30 at the DoubleTree Hotel in Bristol, where Dispatcher Garcia was officially recognized as the 2025 Dispatcher of the Year.
This recognition marks an important milestone in acknowledging the vital contributions of emergency dispatchers and the public safety professionals of AFSCME Local 233 who serve the Bristol community every day.
