SGMC Health recently celebrated the extraordinary contributions of its emergency medical services (EMS) professionals during the annual EMS Awards Ceremony. This heartfelt event focused on honoring the dedication, commitment, and lifesaving achievements of those who work tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of our communities. The awards remind us of the profound impact these individuals have on the lives of countless patients, their families, and the communities they serve.
Among the honorees this year were Garrick Burton, recognized as EMT of the Year; Nate Bassett, awarded Paramedic of the Year; and Captain Kathy Washington, who received the prestigious Robert Mitchell Leadership Award. These awards, along with others, serve to highlight the exceptional service and compassion exhibited by SGMC Health’s EMS team.
This year, the EMT of the Year Award was renamed in memory of Bruce Phelps, a highly respected EMT and public servant who left an indelible mark on the community. Garrick Burton, who has been a member of SGMC Health since 2010, was selected for his unwavering positive attitude, strong work ethic, and exceptional patient care. His peers recognized his dedication, noting that his contributions go beyond typical expectations in emergency medical services.
Nate Bassett, who joined SGMC Health as an Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) in 2021, received the Paramedic of the Year Award. After earning his paramedic license in August 2024, Bassett has become a beacon of reliability and clinical excellence. Known for his calm demeanor and willingness to assist whenever necessary, he embodies the qualities that SGMC Health aims to uphold in providing high-quality emergency care. His work not only saves lives but also inspires others in the profession to embody similar values.
The Robert Mitchell Leadership Award, honoring the legacy of Georgia EMS pioneer Captain Robert Mitchell, was presented to Captain Kathy Washington. Starting her journey as an EMT in 2014, Washington’s ascent to Training Captain is a testament to her dedication to professional growth and development. She has actively pursued additional education, including completing the University of Florida’s Critical Care Paramedic Program and participating in GEMSA’s Axioms of Leadership. Currently, she is enrolled in the highly competitive GEMSA Leadership Class 14. Washington’s achievements showcase her resilience and commitment to excellence, serving as an inspiration to her peers.
The night did not only celebrate individual achievements but also recognized team efforts as a whole. Life Save Awards were presented to 34 individuals for 2023 and another 39 for 2024, honoring those who successfully resuscitated patients who went on to survive to emergency room discharge. Additionally, four EMS professionals were recognized for successfully delivering newborns in prehospital settings, an extraordinary achievement in emergency care.
A new award, the Trauma Life Save Award, was introduced this year to honor 26 individuals for their exceptional trauma response skills. This recognition emphasizes the collaborative efforts within SGMC Health’s Level III Trauma Center, showcasing the critical role played by emergency medical services in complex cases.
"Our EMS Awards Ceremony isn’t just about awards; it’s about gratitude," remarked EMS Chief Emily Brown. She emphasized that the event serves to honor the sacrifices, challenges, and significant lives touched by the EMS professionals. The ceremony was a heartfelt reminder of the dedication and resilience required in this demanding field.
SGMC Health’s EMS department engages in an impressive volume of service, responding to over 29,000 emergency calls and conducting more than 8,400 non-emergency transports annually across Lowndes, Lanier, Brooks, and Echols counties. Their commitment ensures timely and critical access to care, which is vital for the health and safety of the communities they serve.
As we reflect on the profound impact of our EMS teams, it’s important to note that these awards are more than mere accolades; they are a celebration of lives saved and a recognition of those who go above and beyond the call of duty every day. The stories and experiences shared during the ceremony remind us of the importance of valuing and supporting our EMS professionals, who often work in challenging and high-pressure environments.
In an era where we rely on emergency medical services more than ever, recognizing the hard work and dedication of these individuals helps to foster a culture of appreciation and respect for the profession. The compassion shown by SGMC Health’s EMS team is a powerful reminder of the human spirit and the dedication required to provide lifesaving care during critical moments.
To further support and learn more about the outstanding efforts of SGMC Health’s EMS professionals, you can visit their official website at sgmc.org. As we honor their achievements, let us also strive to create a community that supports these everyday heroes, understanding the importance of their roles in maintaining public health and safety.
