In a recent meeting of the Smith County Commissioners Court, officials proclaimed July 12, 2024, as National EMS Memorial Service Moving Honors Day in Smith County. This resolution honors the sacrifices made by emergency medical services (EMS) personnel, particularly those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

The announcement followed a special event held at the Tyler municipal airport, where community members gathered to remember fallen EMS workers, including David Ray Eads, a paramedic who tragically died in an accident while on duty in 2021. Eads, who served in emergency services for 24 years, is survived by his wife, Vicki, and daughter, Kayla.

Commissioner John Moore, who attended the event, emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of first responders. He noted that many community members have personal connections to EMS services, highlighting the critical role these professionals play in public safety.

The National EMS Memorial Service Moving Honors event is a traveling tribute that begins on the West Coast and concludes in Washington, D.C. Tyler is one of only three locations in Texas where the procession will stop, allowing the public to view the Tree of Life memorial, which honors fallen EMS personnel with engraved bronze oak leaves.

The resolution was unanimously ratified by the commissioners, with a call for all residents to participate in recognizing and remembering the sacrifices of EMS and air medical personnel. Following the vote, attendees gathered for a commemorative photograph to mark the occasion.