The Warwick Community Ambulance Association traces its origins to January 1956 when Dr. Arthur Griswold, a dedicated local physician, envisioned the need for a community-based ambulance service in Lititz, PA. His leadership and determination inspired the American Business Club of Lititz (AMBUCS) to sponsor the initiative, leading to the formation of the Warwick Ambulance Drivers Association to operate the service.
The first ambulance, generously loaned to the organization, was housed free of charge in a local garage. Within six months, over 850 families had joined as members, and the service had answered 70 calls. By the end of 1956, AMBUCS secured its own ambulance, a sleek 1954 Cadillac, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s history.
In 1979, the Lititz AMBUCS purchased the old Lititz Borough garage across the street from their original location for $23,000. This new facility was remodeled to accommodate Warwick’s growing services and eventually expanded to include sleeping quarters and a kitchen for its dedicated volunteer crew.
The original two bay garage across the street was converted into a training and storage building.
The physical expansion of Warwick Community Ambulance was a clear sign of its commitment to the region, but it was the advancements in emergency medical services (EMS) that truly transformed the organization. In its earliest days, the only requirements to be a driver were a valid license and a willingness to serve.
By 1963, ambulance drivers were trained in basic First Aid. Fast forward to today, every provider must, at minimum, complete a course to become an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), along with training in emergency vehicle operations, incident command, and hazardous materials awareness. While the higher demands of modern EMS have all but eliminated the ability to staff with volunteers, Warwick has been fortunate to assemble a top-notch team of paid staff.
As the community grew, so did Warwick’s service area. In January 2024, Warwick opened a second station in Elizabeth Township, expanding its commitment to the region. That same year, the original ambulance building was refurbished, blending its historic legacy with modern advancements to continue serving the community.
Today, Warwick Community Ambulance operates five ambulances, two paramedic chase units, an EMS bike team, and a specialized operations unit for event standbys and firefighter rehabilitation. Every vehicle is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including Zoll X Series Advanced Monitors, LUCAS mechanical CPR devices, video laryngoscopes, Sapphire IV pumps, and Stryker Power Load stretcher systems, ensuring the highest level of care.
With a fully paid staff of nearly 50 dedicated EMTs, Advanced EMTs, paramedics, and pre-hospital registered nurses (PHRNs), Warwick Community Ambulance continues to provide exceptional emergency care to the community, staying true to its founding core values of service, dedication, and compassion.
Dedicated to the legacy of Dr. Arthur Griswold and the enduring spirit of community service.
