Spent some time last evening with a group I have so much respect for. Retired and current Rescue Squad members.
Elizabethtown Rescue Squad members invite retired/former members to share their Christmas meal. Always brings back so many memories, I remember when there were no rescue squads and funeral homes provided the service, no training was required and it was not like they wanted the job, but there was no one else to do it.
S.G. Packer and a small group of friends organized the Bladenboro Rescue Squad, the first in the county in the late 60s. Later, a group in Clarkton organized and began serving the area, next was an Elizabethtown group. 25 individuals were invited to begin training about 1971. Dr. Pumphrey and Dr. Meinhardt were the instructors. Later, similar groups organized in Tar Heel and Kelly. Think that was all. Today, some are no longer ‘in service’ and others are unable to provide service at a level they once did. It is no easy task, and nearly impossible to expect volunteers to continue.
Today, a paid service provides primary care, supported by the volunteer rescue squads. Elizabethtown Chief Shelton Lewis shared thoughts about the difficulties the group faces today, less available volunteers and on-going required training. Hurricane Mathew delivered what appears to be a fatal blow to their headquarters near the hospital, a ‘crash unit’ has been ‘parked’ because of related expenses. Two Elizabethtown rescue units continue in service, but it is more difficult than ever to staff every day of the month.
These are not new issues, but one wonders how long they (rescue squads) can continue to provide this important service. If they eventually have to close their doors, the only option is for the county to expand their paid service. Recently, a 1/4 cent sales tax proposal, with proceeds dedicated to the EMS service, was defeated. If rescue squads eventually cease to operate, Bladen County citizens will pay more in property taxes to fund the EMS service.
Thanks to the current members for sharing their meal and their thoughts with former members. Their thoughts are not new, but appear to be more pressing.
I tried to be a baker – but I couldn’t raise the dough.
As a comedian on cruise ships, I can honestly say it’s just one liner after another.
I told the doctor I broke my leg in two places. He told me to quit going to those places.
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