The week of May 17 – 23 has been designated EMS Week. It will be a time to show appreciation to the men and women who serve their community as Emergency Medical Services personnel. Local officials have an event planned for May 20, 2020. It will be an opportunity for those who would like to help recognize Hopkins County EMS.
In 1974, President Gerald Ford authorized National EMS Week to celebrate EMS practitioners and the important work they do in communities.
President Donald Trump issued a May 16 proclamation affirming May 17-23, 2020, as EMS Week. It recognizes of the dedicated personnel across the country for their critical role in health and safety.
“These incredible professionals respond to daily calls for urgent assistance and work tirelessly to serve their communities. Most recently, they have made significant contributions and immeasurable sacrifices during our Nation’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, one of the most daunting and demanding challenges the country has ever faced. This week, we recognize these heroic men and women for their efforts to deliver life‑saving care and compassion to their fellow Americans, and we acknowledge that our country is a safer and healthier place because of their work,” the presidential proclamation stated.
President Trump commended EMS for their sense of duty, selfless service, and sacrifice, expressed appreciation to all EMS services “for their tenacity and life‑saving skills.” He expressed thanks for “their incredible efforts,” which make “our communities and our Nation are stronger, safer, and more resilient.”
“I encourage all Americans to observe this occasion by showing their support for local EMS professionals through appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities,” Trump stated in the proclamation.
National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians partners with the American College of Emergency Physicians to lead annual EMS Week activities to recognized the “important contributions of EMS practitioners in safeguarding the health, safety and wellbeing of their communities.” This year’s theme is “Ready Today, Preparing for Tomorrow.”In lieu of a service this year, a moment of silence was observed for “the fallen.” That was observed at 5 p.m. May 16, with the names of 24 honorees recognized in a live-streamed event.
Locally, an appreciation parade is planned for Wednesday, May 20, by family members of local EMS personnel. It will serve to recognize Hopkins County EMS.
“No one knows how hard frontline workers work except their families. As spouses, parents, siblings or just friends, we want them to feel extra special this year! We are having an Appreciation Parade for Hopkins County EMS. This will be a drive-thru parade with no personal contact, but you can make a poster or banner to show your support. There will also be a mailbox available to drop off cards of appreciation and encouragement. We would love to have as many supporters as possible!” said Amanda Wilburn, wife of a Hopkins County EMS shift captain.
The EMS Appreciation Parade will begin at 5 p.m. Wednesday, departing from Buford Circle and continuing on Connally Street. Supporters will stay in their cars and the line begins at the railroad tracks at Buford Circle. Traffic will circle Buford Circle, turning east on Connally Street. The honorees (EMS personnel) will be lined up on the portion of Connally street that fronts Kid’s Kingdom. Sulphur Springs Police Department is slated to help direct traffic flow, Wilburn said.
