McDowellEMS.com

Unit Leader: Scott Whitmoyer

The idea of establishing an Honor Guard for McDowell County EMS began in 2003 following the death of P.G. Volunteer Fire Chief Bobby Anderson. The unfortunate event of 2003 made McDowell County Emergency Service realize the need of an Honor Guard.

In 2005 the McDowell County EMS began putting ideas together for the formation of such a team. During the same year an Honor Guard was formed. The group consisted of EMS volunteers purchasing their own dress jacket and shoes with the county furnishing the shirts, neck tie's and pants. The group provided services at several funerals by posting guard services during receiving of friends. In 2007 the volunteer group made up of ten EMS paramedics saw the need to expand services to include posting colors. The group decided to re-design and enhance the appearance of the guard uniforms by including hats, shoulder ropes, insignia, flags and accessories. With the publicity of the local media, citizens of the community have donated and continue to contribute to assist with purchasing more equipment for the team.

The team is honored to be in existence and available as a resource to those in need. The Honor Guard participates in events such as: Funerals, Memorials Services, Promotions, Conference, Parade's, Church Services and Special Events. The team is not only available to EMS personnel and their families but also to law enforcement and fire and rescue personnel in the county as well as out of county.