South Carolina EMS Association Celebrates 50 Anniversary of National EMS Week in Style

South Carolina EMS Association Celebrates 50 Anniversary of National EMS Week in Style

South Carolina EMS Association hosted an unprecedented EMS Appreciation Celebration in honor of the 50th Anniversary of National EMS Week.

Originally published by the Journal of Emergency Medical Services on May 29, 2024

South Carolina EMS Association (SCEMSA) hosted an unprecedented EMS Appreciation Celebration in honor of the 50th Anniversary of National EMS Week on May 25 at the South Carolina State Fairgrounds in Columbia, 1200 Rosewood Dr. 

The event showcased a statewide ambulance procession, family fun day with Stop the Bleed and CPR demos, an interactive Touch-a-Truck display, and a concert featuring Taylor Ingle, Corey Smith, and The Frontmen-Larry Steward of Restless Heart, Richie McDonald formerly of Lonestar, and Tim Rushlow formerly of Little Texas.

“Emergency medical service (EMS) personnel are the unsung heroes in our communities, and we were thrilled to be able to celebrate their incredible work during National EMS Week,” said Henry Lewis, Executive Director of SCEMSA. “The EMS Appreciation Celebration was a chance for us to recognize the hard work and dedication of these men and women, and we hope that this event helped raise awareness about the critical role of EMS services in our communities.”

In a significant moment, Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette was in attendance and presented the Governor’s Proclamation for EMS Week in South Carolina, highlighting the vital contributions of EMS personnel to the state.

This groundbreaking event marked the first of its kind, signifying a new tradition in honoring the dedication and sacrifice of EMS professionals across South Carolina and beyond. SCEMSA was proud to lead the way in creating this historic celebration, aiming to foster greater appreciation and recognition for the essential role EMS services play in saving lives and ensuring public safety.