Recently, the WVEMS Office held their Regional EMS Appreciation Picnic and Awards Ceremony, during which 11 EMS providers, physicians, and organizations were recognized for their outstanding contributions to the local EMS communities.Our very own Romney Smith received the award for Outstanding EMS Pre-Hospital Educator. Romney has been an active EMS educator locally, regionally and across the state for nearly thirty years. His passion for EMS education is evident in any class with which he is associated. Romney is the First Lieutenant-Training Officer of Newport Volunteer Rescue Squad and employed as a flight medic by Carilion Clinic Life-Guard 11.
The Regional Award for Outstanding Contribution to EMS was given to Carilion Clinic's Paul T. Frantz, MD. This award is for an outstanding contribution to EMS by an individual, corporation, business, news media or program in providing financial, material, education or other tangible or non-tangible assistance to support and benefit the local, regional or state EMS system. Dr. Frantz, nominated by three separate individuals, is the driving force behind Carilion Clinic’s Heart Alert program. Frantz has dedicated his life to cardiothoracic medicine and he realizes the importance of the inclusion of EMS as a necessary step to saving more lives. Dr. Frantz’s tireless dedication to his patients and the Heart Alert program made him the obvious choice for this award. Local EMS leaders presented Dr. Frantz with his award at this week's Carilion Clinic Heart Alert meeting.
Pictured from left to right: Charles Coffelt-CCPT, Jason Ferguson-Botetourt County Emergency Services, Dr. Paul Frantz-Carilion Clinic, Dave Bishop-Roanoke City Fire & EMS, Billy Duff-Roanoke County Fire & EMS.The staff of CCPT would like to offer a huge congratulations to both Romney and Dr. Frantz for their achievements. Their dedication is another example of Carilion Clinic's commitment to supporting excellence in our EMS communities.
