Marine Corps, Bill Armstrong was first inspired to help others by observing his mother. A registered nurse, she frequently looked after friends and family who were ill or injured. Her compassionate nature rubbed off on Bill. In fact, one day, a neighbor asked if he would drive him to Massachusetts General Hospital for daily treatment. As he waited in the hospital lobby, Bill watched the ambulances transport the sick and injured … this image formed a lasting impression, which would prove to be the guiding force of his career. In 1946, Bill purchased his first Cadillac ambulance. Along with a partner, he formed Arlington Ambulance Service. During the early months, the duo operated from Bill’s family home. Business was tough and Bill’s partner decided to resign from the company. As Bill ventured out on his own, Armstrong Ambulance Service started anew. In those early years, no laws or regulations governed the ambulance business and competition began to spread. But because of his reputation for care and compassion, Bill Armstrong had become an industry leader. He was instrumental in forming the Massachusetts Ambulance Association, which was developed to ensure the highest standards of care throughout the state by all ambulance services. Armstrong Ambulance Service: On the Path of Progress...
As business burgeoned, Bill relocated several times throughout the Arlington area. During the early 1980s, under Bill’s leadership, the company became a pioneer in the field of advanced life support. Today, Armstrong Ambulance celebrates over 65 years of service. The company employs 350 people and operates a fleet of more than 90 vehicles, which are stationed out of 10 satellite locations. Personnel provide care and transportation to more than 100,000 patients annually. The Armstrong family continues to be a driving force behind the hallmark of care and principles of leadership that Bill inspired more than 60 years ago. They are steadfast in their commitment to providing quality service for generations to come.
