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Burke County honors EMS and volunteer responders for multiple life‑saving calls
Summary
Emergency Services Director James Robinson and county leaders recognized dozens of EMS personnel and volunteer firefighters July 20 for rapid responses that included a defibrillation that restored a patient’s circulation and other rescues. Commissioners presented certificates and coins to crews from multiple stations.
The Burke County Board of Commissioners on July 20 publicly recognized county EMS crews and volunteer firefighters for several recent life‑saving responses.
Emergency Services Director James Robinson described three calls that drew special attention: an April incident in which crews defibrillated a patient in ventricular tachycardia and achieved return of spontaneous circulation; a May fainting/seizure call where responders secured ROSC and provided family closure; and a Chesterfield structure fire where off‑duty personnel and mutual‑aid partners rescued a homeowner with mobility limitations. "When I tell you the impact that it's had when you work with a child, I'm telling you, it will end a career for some of these individuals," Robinson said as he named responders and invited them forward for certificates.
Robinson listed individual EMS personnel and volunteer firefighters by name and station, and noted that communications staff also played a role. Commissioners presented coins and certificates to responders including Katie Rudissel, Liliana Swan, Sierra Parker, Calissa Stubbs and others, and urged appreciation for post‑incident stress debriefing. The board noted the quarterly Lifesavers recognition is intended to highlight both routine and extraordinary emergency care.
The presentation emphasized partnership among county EMS, fire departments and Fry Hospital during resuscitation and transport; Robinson said collaboration and training were decisive in positive outcomes. No formal action was required; the recognition was ceremonial and accepted by the board.
