On June 17, Gary Vaughan’s heart stopped beating.

The EMTs who responded from the Aberdeen Fire Department got it started again, then took Vaughan to Grays Harbor Community Hospital. He then was airlifted to Providence St. Peter Hospital in Olympia, where he remained in intensive care until he was released July 6, according to longtime friend Paul MacLeod.

“He asked if I would take him to thank the fellows at the main Aberdeen fire station for saving his life,” said MacLeod. He made the arrangements and drove Vaughan there July 29 with a dozen doughnuts to share.

“Our EMTs don’t get near the credit they deserve for all they do,” said MacLeod.