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Burke County honors life‑saving responders; rescue squad reports 3,170 calls and credential upgrades
Summary
Sheriff Banks Heisman recognized local responders whose quick AED, CPR and bleeding control saved a recruit's life. Burke County Rescue Squad reported credential upgrades to advanced EMT, 3,170 calls in 2025, more than 10,000 training hours, and $130,000+ in grants; volunteers requested support for radios, a replacement ambulance and facility expansion.
Sheriff Banks Heisman presented public safety awards on June 15 to four first responders—Director Brian Christie, Deputy John McKenna, Department of Public Safety Officer Justin Walker and N.C. Highway Patrol Trooper Ben Phillips—whose coordinated CPR and AED use on May 6 helped save recruit Austin Robinson at Western Piedmont Community College.
"To be able to celebrate that to today is truly a blessing," Sheriff Heisman said as he introduced the recipients and read a justification that documented AED use and sustained CPR until EMS arrival.
Later the board heard the annual report from Burke County Rescue Squad. Wes Tater, representing the all‑volunteer nonprofit, said the squad obtained advanced EMT provider status, completed more than 10,000 hours of training in 2025, secured over $130,000 in grants to buy equipment (including a new UTV and cardiac monitor), and responded to about 3,170 calls for service last year. Tater said the group is 100% volunteer and emphasized continuing needs: replacement of a backup 1998 Ford F350 ambulance (a new ambulance can cost $200,000–$250,000), handheld radio replacements for Viper interoperability, and expanded facility capacity near I‑40 to improve response times.
The board unanimously accepted the rescue squad report. Commissioners and the county manager acknowledged the squad’s volunteer service and noted the county’s proposed FY2026–27 budget includes increased support to volunteer emergency services, while county staff continue to seek grants and donations to limit taxpayer burden.
Next steps: the county will coordinate communications about available grant programs and continue discussions with the rescue squad about facility siting and equipment needs.
