The roar of applause may have been just as loud as the engines themselves, but when the sirens finally wailed through the Princess Alexandra Hospital compound, it was official—Anguilla’s newest ambulances were go for launch.
The much-anticipated ambulance handover ceremony took place on hospital grounds on April 11th, marking not just the physical arrival, but the operational readiness of two long-wheelbase Mercedes-Benz W519 ambulances. Sleek, smooth, and surprisingly quiet (until those sirens sang), the vehicles were formally handed over by Her Excellency the Governor, Julia Crouch, to EMS Coordinator, Mr. Steve McDowell in a symbolic transfer of keys that punctuated the day’s excitement.
Chaired by Mr. Malcolm Webster, the event was graced by a high-profile list of attendees including Acting Premier Hon. Cardigan Connor, former Premier Dr. Ellis Webster, Deputy Governor Mr. Perin Bradley, Opposition Member Hon. Merrick Richardson, key health officials such as Dr. Wanda John, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Aisha Andrewin, and Acting PS of Health, Jacqueline Bryan-Niles among others.
“They’re not just ambulances — they’re lifelines.” These were the words from Hon. Mr. Cardigan Connor, whose remarks reflected on Anguilla’s tumultuous journey post-Hurricane Irma and through the COVID-19 pandemic.
The two ambulances are the first in a fleet-wide upgrade—two more are on their way, courtesy of the Government of Bermuda. These units come kitted with hydraulic stretchers, advanced onboard medical tech, and a four-wheel-drive configuration designed for Anguilla’s diverse terrain.
And while the fancy features turned heads, it was the memories of the previous vehicles that brought a touch of sobering reflection. Dr. Ellis Webster recalled how one former ambulance “drove like a truck” and “shook up patients so much that stroke victims swore it made things worse.” He described the process to replace them as a “labour of love,” one that spanned continents and required relentless advocacy.
“No begging game has to be strong,” said Mr. Steve McDowell. A 27-year veteran of EMS service, Mr. McDowell has been beating the drum for new ambulances for years. He acknowledged all who helped secure the upgrades, from Professor Ian Cummings to former Premier Webster. “We are very grateful for these ambulances. It is not about us. It’s about serving the people of Anguilla.”
He also hinted at a new challenge: finding a proper shelter to protect the vehicles from heat damage. “The game doesn’t stop with the keys,” he said.
Her Excellency the Governor, Julia Crouch, used the analogy of the King’s Baton as she traced the collaborative efforts that brought the ambulances to Anguilla. “But it’s not just about the vehicles, it’s what’s inside them—the equipment—and more importantly, who’s inside. Our brilliant EMS staff.”
Dr. Wanda John echoed the sentiment of partnership, “This is only the beginning. We want to train our people so they can function in any environment. Together, we will do more.”
After the speeches, photos and thank-yous’, came the moment everyone had been waiting for. The keys turned, the engines purred to life, and the new ambulances rolled gently out of the parking lot for their first official spin. The ride? Smooth. Comfortable. Surprisingly silent—until the sirens were activated, bringing the test drive to a thrilling close.
The new ambulances have now returned to their home at the Princess Alexandra Hospital, officially on call and ready to serve.
